Gossip
Expressing his eagerness to run for the Lok Sabha elections in Amethi, Robert Vadra, a businessman and the spouse of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, emphasized the expectations of the Amethi populace for him to serve as their representative should he pursue a parliamentary role.
During an interview with ANI, Vadra also directed criticism towards Union Minister Smriti Irani, the current representative of Amethi, suggesting a prevailing sentiment among the locals that her election was a misstep.
Smriti Irani's victory over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls from Amethi, a stronghold of the Nehru-Gandhi family, marked one of the most significant upsets of the elections.
Nearly positioning himself as a potential candidate from Amethi, Robert Vadra, who has previously hinted at political aspirations, highlighted the extensive efforts of the Gandhi family in Amethi and its environs.
"They desire a return of a Gandhi family member, ensuring a resounding victory. Additionally, they anticipate that if I embark on a political journey, aspiring to become an MP, I should represent Amethi," he stated.
However, Vadra also expressed his preference for Priyanka Gandhi to assume the role of MP first, before considering his candidacy.
"I envision Priyanka (Gandhi) assuming the MP position first, paving the way for my potential candidacy. I engage with various MPs from different parties who encourage my participation and inquire about the delay. They pledge their support, transcending party lines. I maintain friendships across diverse political affiliations," he elaborated.
Vadra emphasized that decisions regarding Amethi and Rae Bareli would be made by the Congress leadership.
"I refrain from stating definitively whether I will contest from Amethi or Priyanka from Rae Bareli. Such determinations lie within the purview of the Congress party," he clarified.
Reflecting on his collaboration with Priyanka Gandhi during the 1999 Lok Sabha polls campaign in Amethi, Vadra recalled a different political climate characterized by fear-mongering tactics. Despite challenges, they tirelessly engaged in grassroots efforts, fostering camaraderie and trust within the community.
"The individuals with whom I collaborated extend their support through various means, demonstrating affection and solidarity. They acknowledge my commitment to philanthropy, particularly towards disabled and visually impaired children. My presence amidst them is evident, celebrated through communal gestures such as birthday festivities and charitable endeavors," he remarked.
When questioned about his potential candidacy in Amethi, Vadra stressed the importance of addressing constituents' welfare, security, and avoiding divisive politics.
He noted a sense of dissatisfaction among Amethi residents with the incumbent MP's performance.
"The constituents express regret over their decision, lamenting the MP's infrequent visits and lack of focus on constituency development. Rather than prioritizing progress, she indulges in baseless allegations and attempts to tarnish the Gandhi family's image," Vadra asserted.
Highlighting the Gandhi family's longstanding dedication to Amethi, Rae Bareli, Sultanpur, and Jagdishpur, Vadra underscored a desire among locals for their representation.
"As the Congress is yet to nominate candidates for Amethi and Rae Bareli, it is evident from the party's recommendation that members of the Gandhi family should contest from these constituencies," he concluded.
Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi has been representing Rae Bareli since 2004 and has now been elected to the Rajya Sabha.
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