Internal Strife in Congress as Imran Masood Questions Rahul Gandhi's Leadership
The Congress party is experiencing significant internal conflict as Imran Masood openly questions Rahul Gandhi's leadership, advocating for Priyanka Gandhi as a potential Prime Ministerial candidate. BJP spokesperson Shahzad Poonawala emphasizes the loss of support for Rahul Gandhi among party members and the public. Masood's remarks suggest a growing desire for change within the party, as he defends Priyanka's stance on critical issues. This situation raises questions about the future leadership dynamics in Congress and the potential implications for the party's direction.
| Dec 23, 2025, 14:14 IST
Congress Faces Leadership Challenges
On Tuesday, BJP spokesperson Shahzad Poonawala highlighted a statement made by Congress leader Imran Masood, claiming it reflects internal discord within the party. Masood expressed a lack of trust in Rahul Gandhi and endorsed Priyanka Gandhi as a potential candidate for Prime Minister. Poonawala asserted that Rahul Gandhi has lost the support of the public, party members, and even the Congress headquarters.
During a press conference, Poonawala pointed out that Masood's remarks indicate a significant shift in confidence away from Rahul Gandhi. He quoted Masood saying, 'Remove Rahul, bring in Priyanka Gandhi.' This suggests a desire among some party members to promote Priyanka Gandhi for the Prime Ministerial role, a sentiment reportedly echoed by Robert Vadra. Poonawala emphasized that Rahul Gandhi is not only lacking public support but is also being rejected by his own allies, indicating emerging issues within the party's leadership.
Poonawala further noted the suspension of Odisha Congress leader Mohammad Mokim as evidence of Rahul Gandhi's diminishing authority within the party. Mokim had previously called for the removal of both Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge from their leadership positions, advocating for Priyanka Gandhi to take over. His immediate suspension underscores the lack of trust in Rahul Gandhi's leadership.
Earlier in the day, Imran Masood remarked that if Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were appointed as Prime Minister, she would adopt a firm stance similar to that of her grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He defended Priyanka's comments regarding the rising violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. Speaking to a news outlet, Masood stated, 'If Priyanka Gandhi becomes Prime Minister, you will see her respond like Indira Gandhi did. She carries the Gandhi name and is Indira Gandhi's granddaughter, who inflicted significant damage on Pakistan. Appoint her as Prime Minister and witness her response. You wouldn't dare to do that.'