Priyanka Gandhi to take over the reins of Congress from Sonia instead of Rahul?

Priyanka's active role in striking an alliance with the Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh is like her formal entry in national politics.

New Delhi, Jan 24: A day after the Congress officially acknowledged Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s role in sealing the deal with Samajwadi Party in the upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, demands for a bigger role for her in party affairs are gaining momentum once again. Speculation is rife that Priyanka, who is not new to electoral politics, may contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Rae Bareli in place of her mother and Congress President Sonia Gandhi.

Priyanka, who has been the campaign incharge for Sonia and brother Rahul Gandhi, has abstained from getting involved in organisational activities of the Congress till now. But Congress sources say that her active role in striking an alliance with the Samajwadi Party is like her formal entry into national politics. Sonia’s health has been fragile for some time, leading to scaling down of her political engagements. This makes for perfect situation for Priyanka to enter active politics.

Sonia, who contested her first election from Amethi in 1999, shifted to Rae Bareli in 2004, to pave way for Rahul’s debut in Parliament. The election campaign for both the seats, which are considered as Gandhi family bastion, has been managed by Priyanka since 1999. The Rae Bareli constituency was earlier represented by former prime minister Indira Gandhi. Priyanka’s debut from Rae Bareli will also pave way for her to take over Congress’ charge from Sonia, in case Rahul is not keen to take up the responsibility. (ALSO READ: To restore Congress’ fortune, Priyanka Gandhi must replace Rahul)

Congress sources say poor state of Sonia’s health pushed Priyanka to increase her involvement in party affairs. However, sources have ruled out the possibility of Priyanka taking charge of the Congress instead of Rahul. According to a report in The Times of India, senior leaders said that succession in the Congress could happen at multiple levels, with Rahul’s taking charge of the party coinciding with Priyanka easing into a formal role.

Will Priyanka take over the reins of the party from her mother Sonia Gandhi, instead of Rahul Gandhi? “Congress workers are desirous of her playing a larger role in the party. There is a huge amount of support for her, which is obvious. When her role is decided, you’ll be informed,” said Congress spokesperson Ajoy Kumar.