As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, political parties in Uttar Pradesh are actively preparing for the upcoming contest. However, the slow pace of Congress’ preparations in the state has raised concerns, largely due to the absence of Priyanka Gandhi, who was entrusted with the responsibility of Uttar Pradesh in the previous Assembly elections. Moreover, the delayed announcement of the new Pradesh Congress Committee has further hindered the party’s readiness. Speculations have arisen that Priyanka Gandhi might contest the Lok Sabha elections from Rae Bareli, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the party’s electoral prospects.
Rae Bareli and Amethi constituencies hold immense significance for the Congress party, as they have long been held by the Gandhi family. While Rae Bareli remains with the Congress, represented by Sonia Gandhi as the Member of Parliament, Amethi slipped from their grasp in the previous Lok Sabha elections when Rahul Gandhi faced defeat against Smriti Irani. With Sonia Gandhi’s limited visits to Rae Bareli due to health reasons, there are speculations that Priyanka Gandhi may fill the void and contest from this constituency. Some Congress members, seeing glimpses of Indira Gandhi’s image in Priyanka, view her as the best alternative to Sonia Gandhi. Additionally, with Rahul Gandhi facing legal challenges after the cancellation of his membership from Wayanad, there is growing pressure for Priyanka to contest from any seat in Uttar Pradesh.
Despite actively participating in the 2022 state assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Priyanka Gandhi’s presence in the state has become less visible since then. Her last appearance was in June 2022 during the Nav Sankalp Shivir in Lucknow, and she has not been seen in the state since. Congress leaders have expressed skepticism about her absence. However, after appointing Brij Lal Khabri as the in-charge of the state, Priyanka made significant decisions, such as dividing Uttar Pradesh into six zones and assigning senior Congress leaders to oversee each zone. However, the delay in forming the executive panel to assist Khabri, despite the recommendations being submitted nine months ago, has raised concerns about the party’s organizational efficiency.
Priyanka Gandhi’s appointment as the head of Uttar Pradesh before the previous Lok Sabha elections aimed to bring about a change in the party’s fortunes in the state. She adopted an aggressive approach, leading demonstrations on women’s safety and vehemently criticizing the government over incidents like Hathras and Lakhimpur. The Congress campaign in the 2022 assembly elections centered around Priyanka’s slogan, “I am a woman, I can fight,” with a separate manifesto for women and increased ticket allocation to women candidates.