On the final day of the election campaign, MP Varun Gandhi arrived in Sultanpur to support his mother, Maneka Gandhi. His presence in the campaign came as no surprise, given Maneka’s candidacy. Despite the party’s neglect, neither mother nor son let any disappointment show on their faces or in their expressions. Wherever they went, they greeted the public with smiles.
Varun Gandhi delivered an emotional, non-political speech, filled with messages that highlighted his unwavering support for his mother. He emphasised that even if no one else stands with him, his mother’s strength is all he needs. It was evident that Maneka Gandhi, despite being saddened by the cancellation of Varun’s ticket, maintained her composure and smiled through her sorrow.
This marked Varun’s first active participation in Sultanpur following the ticket cancellation. His demeanor made it clear that he is not one to be easily silenced. In his speeches, he refrained from attacking or criticizing anyone, be it the opposition or the ruling party. Instead, he focused entirely on praising his, successfully winning over the public.
Maneka Gandhi also remained composed throughout her speeches and interviews during the campaign. There was no indication of her son’s ticket cancellation affecting her. It appeared that the public sympathized with their situation, which likely contributed to her favorable standing in the election.
Maneka Gandhi, a leader who has risen through struggles, showed no signs of distraction in this election. Her resilience and Varun’s heartfelt support have strengthened their campaign, making a significant impact on the voters of Sultanpur.
Four decades ago, Maneka Gandhi entered politics alone. After her husband Sanjay Gandhi’s death in 1982, she and her young son Varun were forced to leave the residence of her mother-in-law, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Maneka struggled and established herself in politics while raising Varun and ensuring he received a good education.
Varun Gandhi learned political skills from BJP leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee and held various party positions. He became an MP from Pilibhit twice and once from Sultanpur. In 2013, he supported Anna Hazare’s movement at Ramlila Maidan. After winning the Sultanpur election in 2014, Varun became an MP again when the NDA government, led by Narendra Modi, was formed. His mother, Maneka Gandhi, became a minister at the Centre.
Varun organized youth programs across the country, expressing his views without directly criticizing the government but raising questions on youth issues. His newspaper articles lightly targeted the government. In the 2019 elections, the party gave him a ticket from Pilibhit and his mother from Sultanpur; both won, but Maneka was not included in Modi’s cabinet, leading to speculations about their relationship with Modi.
Despite writing articles praising Modi’s policies, neither Varun nor his mother were given government positions. Varun continued to raise issues concerning farmers and youth, questioning government policies. Ultimately, the party canceled his ticket from Pilibhit. He refused the party’s offer to contest from Rae Bareli against Priyanka Gandhi, as Varun had never spoken against his aunt Sonia Gandhi or her family.
There was speculation about a potential family reunion, possibly with Varun contesting from Rae Bareli or Amethi, but it did not happen. Congress missed the opportunity. Varun is expected to remain active in politics, and observers are keenly watching his next moves.