New Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has explained her decision not to contest in the Lok Sabha elections. In an exclusive interview with India Today, she disclosed that her primary focus is on leading the party’s campaign nationwide, rather than participating as a candidate herself.
Priyanka Gandhi emphasized that if both she and her brother, Rahul Gandhi, were to contest, it would divide their attention, requiring them to dedicate significant time to their respective constituencies. Hence, they opted for a strategy where one could focus on campaigning across the country while the other could manage their constituency affairs.
When questioned about her future electoral prospects, Priyanka Gandhi maintained that her priority lies in serving the party in any capacity assigned to her. She expressed readiness to contest if deemed necessary by the party leadership, rather than harboring personal ambitions for parliamentary representation.
Addressing the BJP’s accusations of fear of defeat as the reason behind her decision, Priyanka Gandhi dismissed such claims, asserting that the party’s decisions are not dictated by BJP’s strategies. She highlighted the importance of their presence in the campaign trail to counter BJP effectively.
Responding to BJP’s criticism regarding Rahul Gandhi not contesting from Amethi, Priyanka Gandhi reaffirmed the enduring bond between Congress and constituencies like Amethi and Raebareli. She questioned PM Modi not contesting from Gujarat’s Vadodara since 2014, she stated that it might reflect a reluctance or fear on his part.
