With a distinguished career in politics and public service, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh brings invaluable insights into the socio-political landscape of India. In a conversation with him, we delve into pressing issues such as Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, the Wealth X-Ray initiative, and the debate surrounding minority quotas.
Q: With nearly half the seats having gone to the polls after the second phase, what’s your assessment of the ongoing elections?
A: After the first phase, our assessment leaned towards the BJP having a strong presence in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. As for the second phase, it’s still early to conclude definitively, but the trends from phase one seem likely to deepen, suggesting a continued dominance for the BJP in these regions. However, the probability of the BJP securing a mandate on its own seems precisely zero at this point.
Q: There’s been a slight dip in polling compared to previous years. How do you interpret this trend?
A: Turnout figures can vary for several reasons, including regional factors and historical trends. For instance, regions like Kerala and West Bengal traditionally witness high voter turnouts. However, in places like Bangalore, which is an outlier in Karnataka, the turnout tends to be lower. I tend to focus more on party mobilization, the enthusiasm of the party workers at the grassroots level, and the overall visibility of the party’s organizational machinery.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your expectations regarding the Congress party’s performance?
A: It’s essential to avoid drawing direct comparisons based on past data. There’s been only one instance where the Congress led a coalition government, securing 145 seats. Interestingly, the circumstances leading up to that outcome mirror the current scenario. Back in 2004, the BJP faced setbacks in states like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, similar to what we’re witnessing now. So, while historical data provides some context, each election is unique.
Q: There’s speculation about Priyanka Gandhi contesting from Rae Bareli. What’s your take on this?
A: As of now, there’s been no official announcement regarding Priyanka Gandhi’s candidature. Such decisions are typically made within the party’s internal deliberative processes, chaired by the Congress president. While it’s natural for party workers to hope for both Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi’s participation, the final decision rests with the party leadership.
Q: Do you think Priyanka Gandhi’s potential candidacy could overshadow Rahul Gandhi’s role in the campaign?
A: While it’s crucial for the Congress party’s momentum and enthusiasm, the decision ultimately lies with the party leadership. If both Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were to contest, it could indeed inject added vigour into the party’s campaign. During my recent interactions in Amethi, there was widespread support for Priyanka Gandhi’s candidature, indicating the potential for a positive impact.