Political Reactions Emerge Following Priyanka Gandhi's New Role in Assam Congress
Political Landscape Shifts with Priyanka Gandhi's Appointment
New Delhi, Jan 4: The recent designation of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as the Chairperson of the Assam Congress Screening Committee has sparked intense political discourse across various parties, with opponents analyzing the implications for leadership within Congress.
In response to this development, JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar acknowledged it as an internal affair of the Congress but connected it to Rahul Gandhi's current absence overseas.
“With Legislative Assembly elections approaching in five states, the Congress typically relies on a screening committee for internal matters. Who will oversee this process now that Rahul Gandhi is abroad? The onus is now on Priyanka Gandhi. Nonetheless, this remains their internal issue,” Kumar stated.
The BJP took this opportunity to criticize the Congress leadership, with national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla asserting that the decision highlights ongoing discord within the party.
“The rivalry between the Rahul and Priyanka factions has been evident for some time… even their allies seem to lack confidence in Rahul Gandhi, preferring Priyanka Gandhi instead,” he claimed.
In defense of the appointment, Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput characterized Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as a leader capable of uniting the party and enhancing the candidate selection process.
“Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is our natural leader, and her influence resonates nationwide. By gathering insights from district leaders and focusing on organizational strategies, we aim to present capable, clean, and competent candidates in every election,” Rajput remarked.
Independent MP Pappu Yadav also expressed support for Priyanka Gandhi’s promotion, highlighting her extensive engagement in social and political issues.
“Her involvement in social and political struggles has been significant. She did not simply inherit this role,” he noted.
On Saturday night, K C Venugopal, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary (organisation), announced the establishment of screening committees for five states and Union territories set to hold elections in the upcoming months.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be joined on the Assam Screening Committee by Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, Imran Masood, and Sirivella Prasad. This panel will be tasked with candidate shortlisting and facilitating internal discussions ahead of the Assembly elections.
In addition to Assam, the Congress has formed screening committees for Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and West Bengal as it prepares for a pivotal electoral period.