New Delhi: A day after the Congress announced Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s electoral debut from Kerala’s Wayanad, her husband Robert Vadra said he actively encouraged her to step into the political arena and take on a more prominent role.
“This time when the decision was being taken, I didn’t take no for an answer. It is essential now for her to be in active politics and Parliament and not just campaign…. I want her to be in Parliament. She should be in the Parliament before me,” he said, adding that he would follow his wife “whenever is the right time.”
He also praised the leadership of Rahul and Priyanka in creating a stronger opposition and credited them for their extensive campaigning across the country. “Today we have a stronger Opposition, the country required that to retain the democracy. The BJP govt will think twice before misusing agencies, their position. This correction was required. INDIA alliance understands the efforts of Rahul. He has learnt from his grandmother, father,” he said.
On BJP’s allegation of nepotism, Vadra said, “They are worried because they know Priyanka will be raising key issues. She gave the slogan – ladki hoon, lad sakti hoon (I am girl and I can fight). The Congress will fight the anti-people agenda and ensure a secular government,” he was quoted as saying by PTI.
Ahead of the recently-concluded Lok Sabha Elections, Vadra had dropped hints on contesting from Amethi constituency, a traditional stronghold of the Gandhi family. The party, however, fielded loyalist Kishori Lal Sharma and he defeated BJP’s Smriti Irani, who had previously defeated Rahul Gandhi in 2019.
The BJP had then mocked Vadra’s exclusion, suggesting he was being marginalised.
