Sunday, 29 September 2024
Sunday, 29 September 2024
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addresses a public meeting in support of party candidate Vikramaditya Singh for Lok Sabha elections, in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh on May 29. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, known for her charisma and ability to connect with the masses, has cemented her position as the Congress's talisman, orchestrating a dynamic and compelling campaign in Uttar Pradesh that resonated across the nation and helped her party script a stunning turnaround in India’s politically key state.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vandra dances with tribal people as she arrives to participate in a public meeting in favour of INDIA allaince candidate Yshashwini Sahay (Congress) for Lok Sabha polls, in Ranchi on May 22. It is no secret that the Congress rank and file has seen shades of her grandmother, Indira Gandhi, in Priyanka and want her to take the plunge in electoral battles. She has not done that yet. But this election season, she took on the crucial role of the party's star campaigner and anchor, particularly focusing on Rae Bareli and Amethi, the two constituencies in Uttar Pradesh that have become synonymous with the Nehru-Gandhi family. In Rae Bareli, her brother, Rahul Gandhi, won by 3,90,030 votes. In Amethi, a relatively unknown Kishori Lal Sharma humbled now-former Union minister Smriti Irani by 1.67 lakh votes. As the driving force behind the Congress campaign in these areas, Priyanka was a non-playing captain in the truest sense, visible everywhere and lending her support and energy to the cause.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vandra dances with tribal people as she arrives to participate in a public meeting in favour of INDIA allaince candidate Yshashwini Sahay (Congress) for Lok Sabha polls, in Ranchi on May 22. It wasn’t just in UP. Priyanka's campaign trail was extensive, covering 16 states and one Union Territory. Priyanka's speeches, more akin to intimate conversations with the crowd, evidently established a strong connection with voters. She took on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his ‘mangalsutra’ and ‘shakti’ remarks and her retorts hit home. She also portrayed herself as someone relatable, sharing her thoughts and feelings with the people, making her a figure they felt they knew personally.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra interacts with supporters during a public meeting for Lok Sabha elections, in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh on May 27. Even after the verdict was announced, Priyanka's political acumen was on full display as she gracefully acknowledged the efforts of the Samajwadi Party workers in Uttar Pradesh, recognising their hard work in the state's results. Her campaign was marked by a consistent appeal to voters to focus on substantive issues rather than getting swayed by emotive rhetoric based on religion and caste.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addresses a public meeting for Lok Sabha elections, in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh on May 27. Her public thank-you note to brother Rahul after the results endeared her to many people. As the Congress celebrates its unexpected gains, all eyes are now on her. Her role in the party is set to grow even more prominent, with many anticipating her eventual electoral debut sooner rather than later. Priyanka's emergence as a seasoned politician has added a new dimension to the Congress leadership, providing hope and a renewed sense of direction for the party's future.
