The decision on the name of candidates from Rae Bareli and Amethi is still pending. Suspicion still looms over the names of siblings, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi contesting elections from Rae Bareli and Amethi.
If so is the case, it would mark the first instance of a non-Gandhi candidate contesting elections from both these seats. However, discussions have reignited regarding Priyanka’s husband, Robert Vadra contesting elections.
There are indications that the siblings may opt out of contesting elections. If sources are to be believed, Priyanka Gandhi had shown interest in contesting eelctions from Rae Bareli, but her mother Sonia Gandhi and brother Rahul Gandhi are reluctant. They want Priyanka to handle the campaign as a star campaigner. Subsequently, Priyanka’s husband Robert Vadra’s name came into discussion. Vadra has been keen on contesting elections from Amethi.
Just last week, posters were also put up in Amethi in support of Vadra, but were later removed.
Meanwhile, when a convoy arrived there, the message went out that Rahul is coming to contest the elections. Instead of revealing the candidates, the party has indicated that the decision will be made by the national president, Mallikarjun Kharge.
Initially, there were reports suggesting that the siblings would visit the Ram temple in Ayodhya before filing their nominations, but it seems that this plan has been abandoned. According to sources, a recent family discussion centered around the constituencies of Rae Bareli and Amethi.
Reports suggest that it was decided Priyanka will not contest, with discussions about Robert Vadra potentially running. However, Rahul also purportedly declined to contest.
Clarity will only emerge once the tickets are officially announced, determining whether the Gandhi family will participate in the Uttar Pradesh elections. If neither Rahul nor Priyanka contests, it could potentially dampen party morale, especially considering the high stakes of this general election. The party appears to be unable to intervene in matters concerning the Gandhi family.