Priyanka Gandhi Takes Charge: Leading Congress Prestige Battles in UP’s Amethi and Raebareli

GG News Bureau
Amethi, 8th May. Senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has assumed a pivotal role in the party’s campaign for two crucial seats in Uttar Pradesh – Amethi and Raebareli, despite not being a candidate herself. While her brother Rahul Gandhi contests from Raebareli, Congress loyalist Kishori Lal Sharma represents the party in Amethi.

Gandhi Vadra’s proactive approach is evident as she schedules nine ‘nukkad sabhas’ today, initiating an intensive outreach campaign. Her recent engagements in Raebareli involved marathon meetings with local Congress leaders at the Bhuemau guesthouse, signaling the beginning of an intense campaign phase.

Addressing party workers, Gandhi Vadra emphasized her unwavering commitment, stating, “I will not move from Raebareli till May 18,” setting a clear directive for the party’s stronghold defense in both constituencies. With voting scheduled for May 20, she rallied support, asserting, “This election is an election to save the Constitution. The BJP wants to take away reservation benefits from you.”

Raebareli, historically a Congress bastion, witnessed rare defeats only thrice since 1952. Despite challenges, veteran Congress leader Sonia Gandhi clinched victories, even amidst formidable opposition. Rahul Gandhi’s candidacy in Raebareli signifies the party’s resolve to uphold its traditional stronghold against BJP’s Dinesh Pratap Singh.

In Amethi, the Congress confronts a formidable opponent in BJP’s Smriti Irani, who ousted Rahul Gandhi in the 2019 election. Irani’s vigorous campaigning underscores the competitive landscape. However, Congress nominee Kishori Lal Sharma, drawing from his grassroots experience, seeks to reinvigorate the party’s presence in Amethi.

Sharma’s sentiment echoes a deep-rooted commitment to serving Amethi’s residents. “The people of Amethi are in my heart. I have been here for 40 years. I just want people to give me a chance to serve them,” he expressed, echoing the party’s aspirations for a resurgence in the region.