The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) handling the security of Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leader-who-drove-priyanka-gandhi-on-scooter-fined-for-violating-traffic-rules-270988">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a> said that this is not the first time when such lapses from her side have been communicated to her.

According to a top CRPF official responsible for the security told sources that earlier also CRPF has communicated and advised her about lapses.

"This is not the first time since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-lauds-crpf-as-bravest-force-in-the-world-270873">CRPF</a> has been given the security of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra when such lapses have taken place. There have been instances when Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was officially communicated about the lapses and advised by CRPF to keep security team in the loop," a top CRPF official told sources.

"We fortnightly or weekly or when it happens, we tell the protectee to follow the security protocols by giving the instances. Accordingly, CRPF also make changes if required with the security structure of the protectee," CRPF official claimed.

When asked about the details particular instances, CRPF official refused to divulge the details claiming it "secret in nature" but confirmed that in last one month CRPF has written to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra multiple times. "In one such instance she made an unscheduled tour to Bijnor," a CRPF official claimed.

"Tour programme of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Z+ Category ASL Central Category (CRPF Protectee) to visit Lucknow on 27/28-12-2019 was received and communicated to state authorities. On December 28, 2019 the only programme indicated was to visit PCC office for attending Congress foundation function for which ASL had been conducted," CRPF clarified on Monday.

"On December 28, Abhay Mishra, CO Hazratganj at around 0800hrs visited the place of stay to enquire about the detailed programme of the day of the protectee which was not communicated by the personal staff. There was no breach in security by the official. Regarding the sequence of events on December 28, 2019 the following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-security-breach-crpf-delhi-police-misjudged-intruders-vehicle-as-rahul-gandhis-car-265936">security violation</a> had occurred," CRPF said in a press statement.

"Unscheduled Movement of the protectee without intimation as such ASL could not be conducted, During travelling the protectee used non-BR civil vehicle without PSO, The protectee took a lift in scooty as a pillion rider," CRPF said.

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) handling the security of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that this is not the first time when such lapses from her side have been communicated to her.

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) handling the security of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that this is not the first time when such lapses from her side have been communicated to her. According to a top CRPF official responsible for the security told sources that earlier also CRPF has communicated and advised her about lapses. "This is not the first time since CRPF has been given the security of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra when such lapses have taken place. There have been instances when Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was officially communicated about the lapses and advised by CRPF to keep security team in the loop," a top CRPF official told sources. "We fortnightly or weekly or when it happens, we tell the protectee to follow the security protocols by giving the instances. Accordingly, CRPF also make changes if required with the security structure of the protectee," CRPF official claimed. When asked about the details particular instances, CRPF official refused to divulge the details claiming it "secret in nature" but confirmed that in last one month CRPF has written to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra multiple times. "In one such instance she made an unscheduled tour to Bijnor," a CRPF official claimed. "Tour programme of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Z+ Category ASL Central Category (CRPF Protectee) to visit Lucknow on 27/28-12-2019 was received and communicated to state authorities. On December 28, 2019 the only programme indicated was to visit PCC office for attending Congress foundation function for which ASL had been conducted," CRPF clarified on Monday. "On December 28, Abhay Mishra, CO Hazratganj at around 0800hrs visited the place of stay to enquire about the detailed programme of the day of the protectee which was not communicated by the personal staff. There was no breach in security by the official. Regarding the sequence of events on December 28, 2019 the following security violation had occurred," CRPF said in a press statement. "Unscheduled Movement of the protectee without intimation as such ASL could not be conducted, During travelling the protectee used non-BR civil vehicle without PSO, The protectee took a lift in scooty as a pillion rider," CRPF said.

Not the first time when Priyanka Gandhi has made such security lapses: CRPF

The CRPF on Monday blamed Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi for security violation when a party leader rode her on a scooter in Lucknow.&nbsp;

CRPF further said "unscheduled movement" without intimation was done by Gandhi. They also said that security lapses on her part were communicated.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CRPF:Protectee used non BR civil vehicle without PSO&amp; took lift in scooty as pillion rider.Despite security constraints appropriate security cover was provided by CRPF. Such security lapses are communicated to protectee and advised for ensuring proper security arrangements. 2/2 <a href="https://t.co/dAkxRqdo8j">https://t.co/dAkxRqdo8j</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1211535796269748224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier today, a&nbsp;Congress leader, who drove <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-slams-bjp-government-on-economy-citizenship-bill-268260">Priyanka Gandhi </a>on a scooter, faced a fine of Rs 6,100 for breaking traffic rules as both leaders did not wear helmets.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Gandhi was stopped by a police personnel in Lucknow as she was on her way to meet the family members of former IPS officer SR Darapuri who was arrested for protesting against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. Congress's Dheeraj Gurjar then rode Gandhi on a scooter to reach former IPS officer's residence.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lucknow: The Congress party worker on whose two wheeler Priyanka Gandhi Vadra travelled while going to meet family members of Former IPS officer SR Darapuri yesterday, has been challaned with a penalty of Rs 6100 for not wearing helmets. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/LArpmx31UJ">pic.twitter.com/LArpmx31UJ</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1211266633936719874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A challan of Rs 6,100 was imposed on Gurjar by the Uttar Pradesh traffic police because both the party leaders were not wearing helmets.&nbsp;

Gandhi earlier claimed that she was "strangulated" and "manhandled" by a lady cop as she was on her way to meet the kin of former IPS officer.&nbsp;

"They (UP Police) surrounded me while I was going on a party worker's two-wheeler, after which I walked to reach there," Gandhi had said to mediapersons.&nbsp;

"I was walking (after the car was stopped). I was surrounded, strangulated. They pushed me ... by a woman police person. I fell down. They stopped me and then I went on the scooter of a party worker," she said.

The UP Police, however, has denied all the allegations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The CRPF on Monday blamed Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi for security violation when a party leader rode her on a scooter in Lucknow. CRPF further said "unscheduled movement" without intimation was done by Gandhi.

The CRPF on Monday blamed Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi for security violation when a party leader rode her on a scooter in Lucknow. CRPF further said "unscheduled movement" without intimation was done by Gandhi. They also said that security lapses on her part were communicated. CRPF:Protectee used non BR civil vehicle without PSO& took lift in scooty as pillion rider.Despite security constraints appropriate security cover was provided by CRPF. Such security lapses are communicated to protectee and advised for ensuring proper security arrangements. 2/2 https://t.co/dAkxRqdo8j — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 30, 2019 × Earlier today, a Congress leader, who drove Priyanka Gandhi on a scooter, faced a fine of Rs 6,100 for breaking traffic rules as both leaders did not wear helmets. On Saturday, Gandhi was stopped by a police personnel in Lucknow as she was on her way to meet the family members of former IPS officer SR Darapuri who was arrested for protesting against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. Congress's Dheeraj Gurjar then rode Gandhi on a scooter to reach former IPS officer's residence. Lucknow: The Congress party worker on whose two wheeler Priyanka Gandhi Vadra travelled while going to meet family members of Former IPS officer SR Darapuri yesterday, has been challaned with a penalty of Rs 6100 for not wearing helmets. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/LArpmx31UJ — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 29, 2019 × A challan of Rs 6,100 was imposed on Gurjar by the Uttar Pradesh traffic police because both the party leaders were not wearing helmets. Gandhi earlier claimed that she was "strangulated" and "manhandled" by a lady cop as she was on her way to meet the kin of former IPS officer. "They (UP Police) surrounded me while I was going on a party worker's two-wheeler, after which I walked to reach there," Gandhi had said to mediapersons. "I was walking (after the car was stopped). I was surrounded, strangulated. They pushed me ... by a woman police person. I fell down. They stopped me and then I went on the scooter of a party worker," she said. The UP Police, however, has denied all the allegations.

CRPF blames Priyanka Gandhi for security breach in Lucknow

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-delhi-high-court-dismisses-plea-of-convict-who-claims-he-was-juvenile-in-2012-269183">Delhi High Court</a> on Monday adjourned till January 14 the hearing on a petition filed by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-raids-vijay-mallyas-close-associate-239240">Enforcement Directorate</a> (ED) seeking cancellation of anticipatory bail granted to businessman Robert Vadra and his close aide Manoj Arora in connection with an alleged money-laundering case.

The matter was adjourned after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-allows-robert-vadra-to-travel-abroad-249395">Vadra</a>'s legal team sought more time citing the absence of senior lawyer K T S Tulsi.

The trial court had, on April 1, granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and Arora and directed them to furnish a personal bond of Rs 5 lakh each and surety of the same amount to avail the bail.

Robert Vadra is Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/priyanka-gandhi-enters-active-politics-congress-plays-its-last-trump-card-192277">Priyanka Gandhi</a>`s husband. Later, seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail, advocate D P Singh, representing the ED, stated that the trial court had "not considered certain facts".

The ED said that Vadra remained "evasive and non-cooperative" during the interrogation and had a "money chain that directly links to him".

The probe agency contended that the anticipatory bail granted to Vadra and Arora interfered with the investigation.

The case relates to alleged money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds.

The Delhi High Court on Monday adjourned till January 14 the hearing on a petition filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seeking cancellation of anticipatory bail granted to businessman Robert Vadra and his close aide Manoj Arora in connection with an alleged money-laundering case.

The Delhi High Court on Monday adjourned till January 14 the hearing on a petition filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seeking cancellation of anticipatory bail granted to businessman Robert Vadra and his close aide Manoj Arora in connection with an alleged money-laundering case. The matter was adjourned after Vadra's legal team sought more time citing the absence of senior lawyer K T S Tulsi. The trial court had, on April 1, granted anticipatory bail to Vadra and Arora and directed them to furnish a personal bond of Rs 5 lakh each and surety of the same amount to avail the bail. Robert Vadra is Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi`s husband. Later, seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail, advocate D P Singh, representing the ED, stated that the trial court had "not considered certain facts". The ED said that Vadra remained "evasive and non-cooperative" during the interrogation and had a "money chain that directly links to him". The probe agency contended that the anticipatory bail granted to Vadra and Arora interfered with the investigation. The case relates to alleged money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property worth 1.9 million pounds.

Delhi High Court adjourns hearing on Enforcement Directorate's plea seeking cancellation of Vadra's anticipatory bail

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reaffirmed on Saturday that he would not apologise for his remarks on rape, adding that he will not seek foregiveness for stating "truth".

"BJP yesterday told me 'Rahul you gave a speech, apologise for that'. I was asked to apologise for speaking something correct. I am not Rahul Savarkar. I am Rahul Gandhi. I will never apologise for truth," Rahul said while addressing Congress's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-slams-bjp-government-on-economy-citizenship-bill-268260">Bharat Bachao </a>rally at the iconic Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Rahul Gandhi,at 'Bharat Bachao' rally: I was told in Parliament by BJP y'day 'Rahul ji, you gave a speech. Apologise for that.' I was told to apologise for speaking something correct. My name is not Rahul Savarkar. My name is Rahul Gandhi. I will never apologise for truth <a href="https://t.co/DhgFyZNX1a">pic.twitter.com/DhgFyZNX1a</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205755807733895168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rahul also said that no Congress member will apologise for the comments.&nbsp;

On Friday, a ruckus erupted in the Parliament for Rahul's remarks where he said that the country is witnessing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-adjourned-after-uproar-over-rahul-gandhis-remark-268035">"Rape in India" </a>rather than PM Narendra Modi's ambitious programme "Make in India", referring to rising number of rape incidents in the recent days. &nbsp;

Rahul later clarified on Friday that he meant whenever one reads a newspaper, there is a report of rape in different parts of India instead of a story on 'Make in India'. He had also said that BJP sought his apology as it wanted to deflect attention from protests in the northeast.&nbsp;

At the Bharat Bachao rally, the senior Congress leader also pulled up BJP government for creating religious divisions, mentioning the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast India.&nbsp;

"They (BJP) work to create divisions, between religions. in Jammu and Kashmir, in northeast. Go to Assam, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh. Go and witness what Narendra Modi did there, he has set those regions on fire."

Rahul Gandhi also slammed the Centre for the economic crisis in the country. "Today, GDP growth is at 4 per cent, that too even after they (BJP) changed the way to measure GDP. If GDP is measured according to the previous method, it will be just 2.5 per cent."

Earlier, senior Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi and P Chidambaram also slammed BJP government in the rally.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reaffirmed on Saturday that he would not apologise for his remarks on rape, adding that he will not seek foregiveness for stating "truth".

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reaffirmed on Saturday that he would not apologise for his remarks on rape, adding that he will not seek foregiveness for stating "truth". "BJP yesterday told me 'Rahul you gave a speech, apologise for that'. I was asked to apologise for speaking something correct. I am not Rahul Savarkar. I am Rahul Gandhi. I will never apologise for truth," Rahul said while addressing Congress's Bharat Bachao rally at the iconic Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi. #WATCH: Rahul Gandhi,at 'Bharat Bachao' rally: I was told in Parliament by BJP y'day 'Rahul ji, you gave a speech. Apologise for that.' I was told to apologise for speaking something correct. My name is not Rahul Savarkar. My name is Rahul Gandhi. I will never apologise for truth pic.twitter.com/DhgFyZNX1a — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2019 × Rahul also said that no Congress member will apologise for the comments. On Friday, a ruckus erupted in the Parliament for Rahul's remarks where he said that the country is witnessing "Rape in India" rather than PM Narendra Modi's ambitious programme "Make in India", referring to rising number of rape incidents in the recent days. Rahul later clarified on Friday that he meant whenever one reads a newspaper, there is a report of rape in different parts of India instead of a story on 'Make in India'. He had also said that BJP sought his apology as it wanted to deflect attention from protests in the northeast. At the Bharat Bachao rally, the senior Congress leader also pulled up BJP government for creating religious divisions, mentioning the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast India. "They (BJP) work to create divisions, between religions. in Jammu and Kashmir, in northeast. Go to Assam, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh. Go and witness what Narendra Modi did there, he has set those regions on fire." Rahul Gandhi also slammed the Centre for the economic crisis in the country. "Today, GDP growth is at 4 per cent, that too even after they (BJP) changed the way to measure GDP. If GDP is measured according to the previous method, it will be just 2.5 per cent." Earlier, senior Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi and P Chidambaram also slammed BJP government in the rally. (with inputs from agencies)

Won't apologise for 'Rape in India' remarks': Rahul Gandhi at Congress rally

Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-holds-meeting-with-up-congress-leaders-to-discuss-bharat-bachao-rally-preparations-266589">Priyanka Gandhi </a>slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday. &nbsp;

Taking a dig at BJP's slogan of Modi hai to mumkin hai (everything is possible if Modi is there), Priyanka said the reality is "if BJP is there, onions at Rs 100 per kg, highest unemployment in 45 years, 4 crore job losses are possible".

The Congress general secretary also urged the people of this country to "raise" their voice otherwise "Constitution" will be destroyed.&nbsp;

"I would like to tell every citizen of this country, raise your voice. If you love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, remain in the darkness of fear and lies even under these circumstances, and stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
PG Vadra, Congress: I'd like to tell every citizen of this country - raise your voice. You love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, stay back in the darkness of fear &amp; lies even in these circumstances, &amp; stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed. <a href="https://t.co/KHXyiYrRHA">pic.twitter.com/KHXyiYrRHA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1205745009980362753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier, former finance minister P Chidambaram, who recently got bail in the INX Media case, also slammed Centre for wrecking the economy in the last six months.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, finance minister said everything's alright, we are on top of the world. The only thing she didn't say was 'achhe din aane wale hain' (good days are about to come)," Chidambaram said taking a dig to BJP's 2014 election slogan. &nbsp;

Congress interim chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gandhi were other leaders who were present in this rally.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi slammed BJP on Saturday over inflation, Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 and jobs as the party organised 'Bharat Bachao' (Save India) rally in the national capital on Saturday. Taking a dig at BJP's slogan of Modi hai to mumkin hai (everything is possible if Modi is there), Priyanka said the reality is "if BJP is there, onions at Rs 100 per kg, highest unemployment in 45 years, 4 crore job losses are possible". The Congress general secretary also urged the people of this country to "raise" their voice otherwise "Constitution" will be destroyed. "I would like to tell every citizen of this country, raise your voice. If you love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, remain in the darkness of fear and lies even under these circumstances, and stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed," Gandhi said. PG Vadra, Congress: I'd like to tell every citizen of this country - raise your voice. You love this country, become its voice. If we don't raise our voice, stay back in the darkness of fear & lies even in these circumstances, & stay quiet then our Constitution will be destroyed. pic.twitter.com/KHXyiYrRHA — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2019 × Earlier, former finance minister P Chidambaram, who recently got bail in the INX Media case, also slammed Centre for wrecking the economy in the last six months. "Yesterday, finance minister said everything's alright, we are on top of the world. The only thing she didn't say was 'achhe din aane wale hain' (good days are about to come)," Chidambaram said taking a dig to BJP's 2014 election slogan. Congress interim chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gandhi were other leaders who were present in this rally.

Priyanka Gandhi slams BJP government on economy, Citizenship Bill

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Friday conducted a meeting of party's Uttar Pradesh leaders in Lucknow for preparation of 'Bharat Bachao'&nbsp;rally.

Attending a meeting with the Uttar Pradesh Congress planning and strategy group, Priyanka discussed upcoming plans and strategies of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee.

She expressed great concern over the surge in cases of violence against females in Uttar Pradesh.

She also paid floral tributes to Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar on 'Mahaparinirvan Divas'&nbsp;at Uttar Pradesh Congress headquarters.

The rally of the Congress party which was scheduled to be held on November 30 has been postponed to December 14 in view of the ongoing winter session of the Parliament.

The 'Bharat Bachao'&nbsp;rally will be the culmination of district-level and state-level protests by the party against Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government at the Centre.

Speaking about the rally, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal had said, "It will be a massive rally to highlight anti-people policies of the central government and people-oriented issues."

"We have decided to hold the rally at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. It has been decided to name it as 'Bharat Bachao Rally'&nbsp;because the people are suffering," he had said.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Friday conducted a meeting of party's Uttar Pradesh leaders in Lucknow for preparation of 'Bharat Bachao' rally. Attending a meeting with the Uttar Pradesh Congress planning and strategy group, Priyanka discussed upcoming plans and strategies of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi on Friday conducted a meeting of party's Uttar Pradesh leaders in Lucknow for preparation of 'Bharat Bachao' rally. Attending a meeting with the Uttar Pradesh Congress planning and strategy group, Priyanka discussed upcoming plans and strategies of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee. She expressed great concern over the surge in cases of violence against females in Uttar Pradesh. She also paid floral tributes to Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar on 'Mahaparinirvan Divas' at Uttar Pradesh Congress headquarters. The rally of the Congress party which was scheduled to be held on November 30 has been postponed to December 14 in view of the ongoing winter session of the Parliament. The 'Bharat Bachao' rally will be the culmination of district-level and state-level protests by the party against Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government at the Centre. Speaking about the rally, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal had said, "It will be a massive rally to highlight anti-people policies of the central government and people-oriented issues." "We have decided to hold the rally at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. It has been decided to name it as 'Bharat Bachao Rally' because the people are suffering," he had said.

Priyanka Gandhi holds meeting with UP Congress leaders to discuss 'Bharat Bachao' rally preparations

In an interesting development in the alleged security breach at Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-security-breach-crpf-delhi-police-misjudged-intruders-vehicle-as-rahul-gandhis-car-265936">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's residence</a>, the family involved has claimed to be workers of the party and said that they wanted to talk to the leader.

Sharda Tyagi, the mother of the car owner, Chandrashekhar Tyagi, said that her son is contesting the elections and they wanted to talk to the Congress leader about the same.

"We are staunch 'Congressis'. Our family members have been members of Congress for generations. I was even a party Commissonerate president in 1987 and contested the elections on a Congress ticket in 1991," Sharda Tyagi told ANI on Tuesday.

She said that they had been wanting to meet the Congress leader for some time and had gone to her residence in New Delhi to seek an appointment.

"Although I have been in politics for over 40 years, I have only met Priyanka Gandhi once. She was very young when I had first met her. This time we only managed to talk to her for a minute and my family spent that time clicking selfies," Tyagi said.

"Priyanka Gandhi was entering her house and so we got to meet her. There was a security breach. The Home Guards opened the gate without even seeing who was sitting inside. We only went there once and saw such negligence. This is unacceptable," she added.

Tyagi said Priyanka Gandhi introduced them to a party member and asked to contact that person if we needed anything.

In the last week of November, seven people allegedly entered the residence of Priyanka Gandhi in New Delhi in a black SUV without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Gandhi.

While sources say that an inquiry is being conducted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) into the matter, the incident has spiralled into a political controversy with several Opposition leaders targeting the Central government over the same.

The Central government had recently withdrawn the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover given to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after reviewing the security cover of the three Congress leaders.&nbsp;

In an interesting development in the alleged security breach at Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's residence, the family involved has claimed to be workers of the party and said that they wanted to talk to the leader.

In an interesting development in the alleged security breach at Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's residence, the family involved has claimed to be workers of the party and said that they wanted to talk to the leader. Sharda Tyagi, the mother of the car owner, Chandrashekhar Tyagi, said that her son is contesting the elections and they wanted to talk to the Congress leader about the same. "We are staunch 'Congressis'. Our family members have been members of Congress for generations. I was even a party Commissonerate president in 1987 and contested the elections on a Congress ticket in 1991," Sharda Tyagi told ANI on Tuesday. She said that they had been wanting to meet the Congress leader for some time and had gone to her residence in New Delhi to seek an appointment. "Although I have been in politics for over 40 years, I have only met Priyanka Gandhi once. She was very young when I had first met her. This time we only managed to talk to her for a minute and my family spent that time clicking selfies," Tyagi said. "Priyanka Gandhi was entering her house and so we got to meet her. There was a security breach. The Home Guards opened the gate without even seeing who was sitting inside. We only went there once and saw such negligence. This is unacceptable," she added. Tyagi said Priyanka Gandhi introduced them to a party member and asked to contact that person if we needed anything. In the last week of November, seven people allegedly entered the residence of Priyanka Gandhi in New Delhi in a black SUV without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Gandhi. While sources say that an inquiry is being conducted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) into the matter, the incident has spiralled into a political controversy with several Opposition leaders targeting the Central government over the same. The Central government had recently withdrawn the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover given to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after reviewing the security cover of the three Congress leaders.

'We are staunch Congress workers': Kin of family involved in security breach at Priyanka's residence

Security breach at Priyanka Gandhi’s residence last week. Watch video to know more.

Security breach at Priyanka Gandhi’s residence last week

Taking cognizance of the complaint, CRPF started the investigation on the alleged security breach in Congress General Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/politics-of-security-withdrawal-of-spg-cover-of-gandhis-260883">Priyanka Gandhi's </a>residence, as per sources.

A car drove into the high-security residence at the Lodhi estate without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Priyanka a week ago, as per Congress sources. Priyanka was present in his house at the time of the incident.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Deepak Yadav, Additional DCP, New Delhi: No complaints received in the local Police Station regarding entry of any unauthorized vehicle in the house of Priyanka Gandhi. <a href="https://t.co/OWSOnYOfZm">https://t.co/OWSOnYOfZm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1201485002099183617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Sources further said that an inquiry has been initiated by the CRPF for the security breach after a complaint was filed.&nbsp;

G Kishan Reddy, MoS Home Affairs said that he doesn't know the details of the security breach yet. "I don't know the details yet, I am coming from Lok Sabha. I will go and discuss the matter with my officers," Reddy said. &nbsp;

The incident came after the Centre recently withdrew the highest level Special Protection Group (SPG) protection given to the Gandhi family (Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra). The trio is now given Z+ security cover by the CRPF across India. &nbsp;The Central government said that the decision was taken after assessing that the threat perception to the family which has been lowered.&nbsp;

The Gandhis had been under the highest security ever since the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 by terror groups from Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Taking cognizance of the complaint, CRPF started the investigation on the alleged security breach in Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi's residence, as per sources.

Taking cognizance of the complaint, CRPF started the investigation on the alleged security breach in Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi's residence, as per sources. A car drove into the high-security residence at the Lodhi estate without any prior appointment and sought selfies with Priyanka a week ago, as per Congress sources. Priyanka was present in his house at the time of the incident. Deepak Yadav, Additional DCP, New Delhi: No complaints received in the local Police Station regarding entry of any unauthorized vehicle in the house of Priyanka Gandhi. https://t.co/OWSOnYOfZm — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2019 × Sources further said that an inquiry has been initiated by the CRPF for the security breach after a complaint was filed. G Kishan Reddy, MoS Home Affairs said that he doesn't know the details of the security breach yet. "I don't know the details yet, I am coming from Lok Sabha. I will go and discuss the matter with my officers," Reddy said. The incident came after the Centre recently withdrew the highest level Special Protection Group (SPG) protection given to the Gandhi family (Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra). The trio is now given Z+ security cover by the CRPF across India. The Central government said that the decision was taken after assessing that the threat perception to the family which has been lowered. The Gandhis had been under the highest security ever since the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 by terror groups from Sri Lanka. (with inputs from agencies)

CRPF launches probe following security breach at Priyanka Gandhi's residence

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will meet former finance minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-enforcement-directorate-visits-tihar-jail-to-interrogate-p-chidambaram-263847">P Chidambaram </a>here at Tihar Jail on Wednesday.

Chidambaram, a senior Congress leader, is currently lodged in Tihar jail under judicial custody after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested him last month in connection with the INX Media money laundering case.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court adjourned for November 27 the hearing of an appeal filed by Chidambaram challenging Delhi High Court order denying him bail in the INX Media money laundering case being probed by the ED.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case. The Congress leader was first arrested by the CBI on August 21 in the INX Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later.

He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16. He is presently in judicial custody till November 27.&nbsp;

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will meet former finance minister P Chidambaram here at Tihar Jail on Wednesday. Chidambaram, a senior Congress leader, is currently lodged in Tihar jail under judicial custody after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested him last month in connection with the INX Media money laundering case.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will meet former finance minister P Chidambaram here at Tihar Jail on Wednesday. Chidambaram, a senior Congress leader, is currently lodged in Tihar jail under judicial custody after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested him last month in connection with the INX Media money laundering case. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court adjourned for November 27 the hearing of an appeal filed by Chidambaram challenging Delhi High Court order denying him bail in the INX Media money laundering case being probed by the ED. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered a corruption case in this regard in May 2017. Later that year, the ED also lodged a money laundering case. The Congress leader was first arrested by the CBI on August 21 in the INX Media corruption case but was granted bail by the Supreme Court two months later. He was arrested by the ED in the money laundering case on October 16. He is presently in judicial custody till November 27.

Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi to meet Chidambaram at Tihar jail tomorrow

The Indian government to withdraw highest level Special Protection Group (SPG) protection for the Gandhi family (Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra) and the trio will be accorded Z+ security henceforth, reported news agency ANI quoting government sources.&nbsp;

Gandhi family members will be given Z+ security cover by Central Reserve Police Force all over India, ANI added quoting government sources.

The decision was taken after a security review recently, added the sources.

Modi government's decision comes a couple of months after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's security cover was downgraded from the SPG rank to Z+ by the Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp;

Manmohan Singh's security cover was downgraded in August 2019.&nbsp;

The security cover has been reviewed as a periodical and professional exercise, based on the threat perception, MHA sources said while downgrading the security of Singh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Indian government to withdraw highest level Special Protection Group (SPG) protection for the Gandhi family (Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra) and the trio will be accorded Z+ security henceforth, reported news agency ANI quoting government sources.

The Indian government to withdraw highest level Special Protection Group (SPG) protection for the Gandhi family (Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra) and the trio will be accorded Z+ security henceforth, reported news agency ANI quoting government sources. Gandhi family members will be given Z+ security cover by Central Reserve Police Force all over India, ANI added quoting government sources. The decision was taken after a security review recently, added the sources. Modi government's decision comes a couple of months after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's security cover was downgraded from the SPG rank to Z+ by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Manmohan Singh's security cover was downgraded in August 2019. The security cover has been reviewed as a periodical and professional exercise, based on the threat perception, MHA sources said while downgrading the security of Singh.

Government to downgrade Gandhi family's security cover from SPG rank to Z+  

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists.

Last week, Facebook, the parent company of WhatsApp, alleged that Israeli cyber security company NSO used WhatsApp servers to spread spyware Pegasus.

"When WhatsApp sent messages to all those whose phones were hacked, one such message was also received by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra," said Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala in a press conference on being asked about NCP leader Praful Patel and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee receiving messages from the Facebook-owned messaging platform.

Surjewala, however, did not mention when exactly Priyanka received the message.

Amid the raging controversy, the government has asked WhatsApp to come out with an explanation on the breach of privacy and list out measures that have been taken to safeguard the privacy of millions of Indians.

This comes a day after Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi dubbed the snooping on activists, journalists and political persons as illegal, alleging that the government acquired an Israeli software to spy on citizens.

According to reports, WhatsApp revealed that journalists and activists in India have been the target of surveillance by operators using the Israeli spyware Pegasus.

The messaging platform said that it had reached out to the people who were targeted but declined to reveal the identities and "exact number" of those who were targeted.The messaging company stated that it remains committed to protecting all messages of its users. 
&nbsp;

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists.

The Congress on Sunday claimed that its party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra`s phone was also hacked during a recent spyware attack on several journalists and human rights activists. Last week, Facebook, the parent company of WhatsApp, alleged that Israeli cyber security company NSO used WhatsApp servers to spread spyware Pegasus. "When WhatsApp sent messages to all those whose phones were hacked, one such message was also received by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra," said Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala in a press conference on being asked about NCP leader Praful Patel and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee receiving messages from the Facebook-owned messaging platform. Surjewala, however, did not mention when exactly Priyanka received the message. Amid the raging controversy, the government has asked WhatsApp to come out with an explanation on the breach of privacy and list out measures that have been taken to safeguard the privacy of millions of Indians. This comes a day after Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi dubbed the snooping on activists, journalists and political persons as illegal, alleging that the government acquired an Israeli software to spy on citizens. According to reports, WhatsApp revealed that journalists and activists in India have been the target of surveillance by operators using the Israeli spyware Pegasus. The messaging platform said that it had reached out to the people who were targeted but declined to reveal the identities and "exact number" of those who were targeted.The messaging company stated that it remains committed to protecting all messages of its users.

Snooping row: Priyanka Gandhi's phone also hacked, claims Congress

In an attempt to brace the newly-appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress unit for the political battle in the state, General Secretary and UP in-charge Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will supervise a three-day training workshop for them.

According to Congress sources, on October 14, 15 and 16, a training camp will be held for the leaders of the UP Congress Committee in Raebareli.

The training, which comes merely days after the formation of the new committee, will be held in the presence of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

The new district heads will also be given training in the workshop, which will be held in two parts, sources said.'

In the workshop, leaders will be given information on all the issues related to the ideology of the party as well as from the media to social media and the leaders will also be heard.

Party sources say that Priyanka will start the workshop and will be present in every session.

The national-level leaders of the Congress have been tasked to train the new team.

AICC head of the training department Sachin Rao and AICC head of social media Rohan Gupta will also train the UP team, sources told ANI.

It is worth noting that Priyanka Gandhi has formed a new team to prepare the party in view of the 2022 assembly elections.

While, on one hand, the challenge for Congress is to strengthen the party in the state and portray itself as a strong alternative, on the other hand, it also has to highlight the shortcomings of the incumbent government.

The party had, on Monday, appointed party MLA Ajay Kumar Lallu as its chief and Aradhana Misra 'Mona'&nbsp;as the leader of the legislative party.

Four vice-presidents and 12 general secretaries were also appointed the same day.

In the new committee, grassroots and youth leaders were given prominence.

Advisory and strategy committees, which will be chaired by Priyanka Gandhi, were also set up consisting of experienced and senior party leaders of the state.

"Priyanka Gandhi will meet everyone. What will happen in Rae Bareli training workshop is not known but we are all very excited. The party has given a big responsibility by identifying the grassroots people with the thought that Together we will work to strengthen the party in the state," a secretary of the new state committee told ANI on the condition of anonymity. According to party sources, the announcement of new district heads will soon be done.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

In an attempt to brace the newly-appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress unit for the political battle in the state, General Secretary and UP in-charge Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will supervise a three-day training workshop for them.

In an attempt to brace the newly-appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress unit for the political battle in the state, General Secretary and UP in-charge Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will supervise a three-day training workshop for them. According to Congress sources, on October 14, 15 and 16, a training camp will be held for the leaders of the UP Congress Committee in Raebareli. The training, which comes merely days after the formation of the new committee, will be held in the presence of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The new district heads will also be given training in the workshop, which will be held in two parts, sources said.' In the workshop, leaders will be given information on all the issues related to the ideology of the party as well as from the media to social media and the leaders will also be heard. Party sources say that Priyanka will start the workshop and will be present in every session. The national-level leaders of the Congress have been tasked to train the new team. AICC head of the training department Sachin Rao and AICC head of social media Rohan Gupta will also train the UP team, sources told ANI. It is worth noting that Priyanka Gandhi has formed a new team to prepare the party in view of the 2022 assembly elections. While, on one hand, the challenge for Congress is to strengthen the party in the state and portray itself as a strong alternative, on the other hand, it also has to highlight the shortcomings of the incumbent government. The party had, on Monday, appointed party MLA Ajay Kumar Lallu as its chief and Aradhana Misra 'Mona' as the leader of the legislative party. Four vice-presidents and 12 general secretaries were also appointed the same day. In the new committee, grassroots and youth leaders were given prominence. Advisory and strategy committees, which will be chaired by Priyanka Gandhi, were also set up consisting of experienced and senior party leaders of the state. "Priyanka Gandhi will meet everyone. What will happen in Rae Bareli training workshop is not known but we are all very excited. The party has given a big responsibility by identifying the grassroots people with the thought that Together we will work to strengthen the party in the state," a secretary of the new state committee told ANI on the condition of anonymity. According to party sources, the announcement of new district heads will soon be done.

Uttar Pradesh: Priyanka Gandhi to supervise training workshop for new Congress unit from October 14-16

Following a meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called her a great inspiration.

Priyanka said that Prime Minister Hasina has the trait of fighting for her belief with bravery and perseverance.

"An overdue hug from Sheikh Hasina Ji whom I have been waiting to meet again for a long time. Her strength in overcoming deep personal loss and hardship and fighting for what she believed in with bravery and perseverance is, and always will be a great inspiration for me."

Earlier in the day, Hasina met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party.

During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power.&nbsp;

Manmohan Singh had then visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011.

Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Following a meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called her a great inspiration. Priyanka said that Prime Minister Hasina has the trait of fighting for her belief with bravery and perseverance.

Following a meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called her a great inspiration. Priyanka said that Prime Minister Hasina has the trait of fighting for her belief with bravery and perseverance. "An overdue hug from Sheikh Hasina Ji whom I have been waiting to meet again for a long time. Her strength in overcoming deep personal loss and hardship and fighting for what she believed in with bravery and perseverance is, and always will be a great inspiration for me." Earlier in the day, Hasina met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party. During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power. Manmohan Singh had then visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011. Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.

Priyanka Gandhi calls Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina an 'inspiration'

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Anand Sharma, and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here.

During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders are expected to discuss ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power. Manmohan Singh had visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011.

Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Anand Sharma, and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Anand Sharma, and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here. During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders are expected to discuss ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power. Manmohan Singh had visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011. Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.

Sheikh Hasina meets Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka, Manmohan Singh

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday met senior party leaders from Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the political situation in the state.

The leaders including former Union ministers RPN Singh, Jitin Prasad and Pradeep Jain, Rajya Sabha MPs Pramod Tiwari and PL Punia attended the meeting at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's residence.

After the meeting, Pramod Tiwari and Jitin Prasad said several issues related to the party organisation including strengthening the cadre base in UP came up during the discussion.

According to a party source, the upcoming Assembly by-polls in UP, the appointment of a new state party president and formation of district committees were among the issues which came up.

Congress is keen to contest the by-elections on its own, the source said.

"Suggestions were sought from the leaders on the ways to strengthen the party at the grassroot level," the source added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday met senior party leaders from Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the political situation in the state. The leaders including former Union ministers RPN Singh, Jitin Prasad and Pradeep Jain, Rajya Sabha MPs Pramod Tiwari and PL Punia attended the meeting at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's residence.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday met senior party leaders from Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the political situation in the state. The leaders including former Union ministers RPN Singh, Jitin Prasad and Pradeep Jain, Rajya Sabha MPs Pramod Tiwari and PL Punia attended the meeting at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's residence. After the meeting, Pramod Tiwari and Jitin Prasad said several issues related to the party organisation including strengthening the cadre base in UP came up during the discussion. According to a party source, the upcoming Assembly by-polls in UP, the appointment of a new state party president and formation of district committees were among the issues which came up. Congress is keen to contest the by-elections on its own, the source said. "Suggestions were sought from the leaders on the ways to strengthen the party at the grassroot level," the source added.

Priyanka Gandhi meets UP Congress leaders; discusses political situation

2019 is not 1998. Sonia Gandhi's appointment as interim Congress president may unite the party for some time but it fails to address the root question of its decline and shrinking in various states. Yes, Sonia Gandhi will continue as the president for longer than what people think but she too stares at a hard road ahead. Though she has been made interim president, there will be no hurry in calling the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting. There is unlikely to be any challenger either. The reason is simple: Those who ensured that Sonia came back will also ensure that arrangement continues till she can function as the president. This arrangement makes (as I mentioned in my <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-return-of-ahmed-patel-233039">previous write up</a>) Ahmed Patel a very important person in the scheme of things. 
&nbsp; 
There is no doubt that Mr Patel did not have cosy relationship with Rahul Gandhi but he does enjoy a rapport with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Sonia's coming back and Rahul Gandhi functioning as a common MP will lead to re-consolidation of the team which worked with Sonia Gandhi from 1998 onwards. Another impact of the decision would be partial marginalisation of the office managers of Rahul Gandhi who enjoyed disproportionate power within the Congress party. 
&nbsp; 
Another major change would be toning down of difference between the old and young Congress as the young will to be more flexible with Sonia's team. Though many believe they would still have ears of Priyanka Gandhi, if closely observed, the older leadership feels at home with Priyanka and would not mind accommodating the new faces brought in by Rahul Gandhi on her insistence. This move also marks entry of Priyanka Gandhi in the larger scheme of things. Now, Congress leaders are openly talking about Priyanka as a natural successor to Sonia than Rahul Gandhi. There are senior leaders in the Congress who believe that a particular section always preferred Priyanka over Rahul but had to keep quiet because of Sonia's insistence as Rahul taking over the party. But with Rahul staying firm on his decision, the equation has changed within the Congress, till sibling rivalry comes to fore. 
&nbsp; 
The flip side is that Sonia Gandhi cannot be as active as she used to be in late 1990s. Sonia only focussed from 2010 onwards in projecting Rahul Gandhi as the real inheritor of the Congress. She will have to divert all her attention on bread and butter issues. She was brought in as the Congress president because the leaders at that point of time felt that Sitaram Kesari is not the totem pole around which Congress can fight BJP. This time Sonia's comeback is based more on internal power distribution in the party which lost its equilibrium after Rahul's entry into the mainstream organisation.

Priyanka Gandhi too has been politically exposed in the Lok Sabha elections. She will have to prove herself again in the next assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh if she wants to be taken seriously at the national level.

On the other hand, Congress is also all set to do badly again for next two years. There is no hope in hell for the Congress when it comes to assembly elections in Haryana, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Delhi, Bihar, West Bengal and Assam. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand have workers but decisive leadership at the state does not exist.

More so, selection of Sonia Gandhi as the president shows Congress as a political outfit has become intellectually hollow and weak. It does not have a strong ideological foundation anymore. Karan Singh, who did a press conference 48 hours before abrogation of Article 370, praised it once it was passed. The Chief Whip of the Congress party in Rajya Sabha resigned after issuing a three-line whip.

Senior leaders spoke in different voice on this issue. The travesty is that CWC was called after BJP was able to successfully pass the bill in Rajya Sabha. 
&nbsp; 
It showed that ideas do not bind Congress party together. It has forgotten what it used to be. Its institutional memory is limited to a family. On Saturday evening, it once again failed to show courage and demonstrate intellectual depth. It could not select a non-Gandhi. The old clique ensured that Sonia comes back so that it could function easily once again as Rahul Gandhi wanted to create a new at their expense. Rahul's venture would have worked in any other party but because he himself is a product of entitlement, his measures were never seen as convincing. 
&nbsp; 
Congress today is behaving like an old conglomerate which has not understood that business of politics has changed in India. Congress cannot wait for BJP to make mistake. Congress feels that BJP has made a big mistake in Kashmir whereas rest of India feels that Modi has done the right thing. The message in rest of India is that nation is not a soft state which can be harassed by politicians who have sustained the idea of persecution and difference for decades in the Valley.

Congress also should not suffer from selective amnesia. It arrested and jailed the popularly elected chief minister Sheikh Abdullah throughout 50s and 60s. He returned to a normal life as a broken man. It can take a leaf out of BJP's book. When Indira reigned as a supreme leader, Jan Sangh was reborn as BJP in 1980. At its centre, there was a collegium of leaders and powerful satraps. It made BJP survive Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, VP Singh and Narsimha Rao. Congress need a collegium of leaders at the centre rather than the cult of Gandhis and Congress needs to understand this because as the biggest Opposition party, it is answerable to us, common citizens rather than one family.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

2019 is not 1998. Sonia Gandhi's appointment as interim Congress president may unite the party for some time but it fails to address the root question of its decline and shrinking in various states.

2019 is not 1998. Sonia Gandhi's appointment as interim Congress president may unite the party for some time but it fails to address the root question of its decline and shrinking in various states. Yes, Sonia Gandhi will continue as the president for longer than what people think but she too stares at a hard road ahead. Though she has been made interim president, there will be no hurry in calling the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting. There is unlikely to be any challenger either. The reason is simple: Those who ensured that Sonia came back will also ensure that arrangement continues till she can function as the president. This arrangement makes (as I mentioned in my previous write up) Ahmed Patel a very important person in the scheme of things. There is no doubt that Mr Patel did not have cosy relationship with Rahul Gandhi but he does enjoy a rapport with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Sonia's coming back and Rahul Gandhi functioning as a common MP will lead to re-consolidation of the team which worked with Sonia Gandhi from 1998 onwards. Another impact of the decision would be partial marginalisation of the office managers of Rahul Gandhi who enjoyed disproportionate power within the Congress party. Another major change would be toning down of difference between the old and young Congress as the young will to be more flexible with Sonia's team. Though many believe they would still have ears of Priyanka Gandhi, if closely observed, the older leadership feels at home with Priyanka and would not mind accommodating the new faces brought in by Rahul Gandhi on her insistence. This move also marks entry of Priyanka Gandhi in the larger scheme of things. Now, Congress leaders are openly talking about Priyanka as a natural successor to Sonia than Rahul Gandhi. There are senior leaders in the Congress who believe that a particular section always preferred Priyanka over Rahul but had to keep quiet because of Sonia's insistence as Rahul taking over the party. But with Rahul staying firm on his decision, the equation has changed within the Congress, till sibling rivalry comes to fore. The flip side is that Sonia Gandhi cannot be as active as she used to be in late 1990s. Sonia only focussed from 2010 onwards in projecting Rahul Gandhi as the real inheritor of the Congress. She will have to divert all her attention on bread and butter issues. She was brought in as the Congress president because the leaders at that point of time felt that Sitaram Kesari is not the totem pole around which Congress can fight BJP. This time Sonia's comeback is based more on internal power distribution in the party which lost its equilibrium after Rahul's entry into the mainstream organisation. Priyanka Gandhi too has been politically exposed in the Lok Sabha elections. She will have to prove herself again in the next assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh if she wants to be taken seriously at the national level. On the other hand, Congress is also all set to do badly again for next two years. There is no hope in hell for the Congress when it comes to assembly elections in Haryana, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Delhi, Bihar, West Bengal and Assam. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand have workers but decisive leadership at the state does not exist. More so, selection of Sonia Gandhi as the president shows Congress as a political outfit has become intellectually hollow and weak. It does not have a strong ideological foundation anymore. Karan Singh, who did a press conference 48 hours before abrogation of Article 370, praised it once it was passed. The Chief Whip of the Congress party in Rajya Sabha resigned after issuing a three-line whip. Senior leaders spoke in different voice on this issue. The travesty is that CWC was called after BJP was able to successfully pass the bill in Rajya Sabha. It showed that ideas do not bind Congress party together. It has forgotten what it used to be. Its institutional memory is limited to a family. On Saturday evening, it once again failed to show courage and demonstrate intellectual depth. It could not select a non-Gandhi. The old clique ensured that Sonia comes back so that it could function easily once again as Rahul Gandhi wanted to create a new at their expense. Rahul's venture would have worked in any other party but because he himself is a product of entitlement, his measures were never seen as convincing. Congress today is behaving like an old conglomerate which has not understood that business of politics has changed in India. Congress cannot wait for BJP to make mistake. Congress feels that BJP has made a big mistake in Kashmir whereas rest of India feels that Modi has done the right thing. The message in rest of India is that nation is not a soft state which can be harassed by politicians who have sustained the idea of persecution and difference for decades in the Valley. Congress also should not suffer from selective amnesia. It arrested and jailed the popularly elected chief minister Sheikh Abdullah throughout 50s and 60s. He returned to a normal life as a broken man. It can take a leaf out of BJP's book. When Indira reigned as a supreme leader, Jan Sangh was reborn as BJP in 1980. At its centre, there was a collegium of leaders and powerful satraps. It made BJP survive Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, VP Singh and Narsimha Rao. Congress need a collegium of leaders at the centre rather than the cult of Gandhis and Congress needs to understand this because as the biggest Opposition party, it is answerable to us, common citizens rather than one family. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Congress needs to do more, 2019 is not 1998

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said Congress leaders will extend all the support if Priyanka Gandhi is chosen to&nbsp;take over as the party president.&nbsp;

“Priyanka would be a perfect choice to take over the party reins but it would all depend on the Congress Working Committee (CWC), which alone is authorised to take a decision in the matter,” he said

This comes a day after Congress leader Shashi Tharoor had expressed frustration over the delay in the appointment of a new Congress president, saying that it was giving an impression of "drift and indecision." &nbsp;

"What we are seeing is a level of disarray which is not worthy of a grand national party that we are. It will end the moment a quick efficient decision is taken and then I believe a democratic process should take place that will open up the election to other candidates," said Tharoor.

Earlier, Former President Pranab Mukherjee's son Abhijit Mukherjee asked Priyanka Gandhi to take over the reins of Congress. She will drive it back to a landslide victory like her grandmother Indira Gandhi did, he said.

Veteran Congress leader and five-time MP Jai Prakash Agarwal&nbsp;too had insisted that Priyanka Gandhi was capable to lead the party.

On July 3, Rahul Gandhi made his resignation public as the party president.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said Congress leaders will extend all the support if Priyanka Gandhi is chosen to take over as the party president.

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said Congress leaders will extend all the support if Priyanka Gandhi is chosen to take over as the party president. “Priyanka would be a perfect choice to take over the party reins but it would all depend on the Congress Working Committee (CWC), which alone is authorised to take a decision in the matter,” he said This comes a day after Congress leader Shashi Tharoor had expressed frustration over the delay in the appointment of a new Congress president, saying that it was giving an impression of "drift and indecision." "What we are seeing is a level of disarray which is not worthy of a grand national party that we are. It will end the moment a quick efficient decision is taken and then I believe a democratic process should take place that will open up the election to other candidates," said Tharoor. Earlier, Former President Pranab Mukherjee's son Abhijit Mukherjee asked Priyanka Gandhi to take over the reins of Congress. She will drive it back to a landslide victory like her grandmother Indira Gandhi did, he said. Veteran Congress leader and five-time MP Jai Prakash Agarwal too had insisted that Priyanka Gandhi was capable to lead the party. On July 3, Rahul Gandhi made his resignation public as the party president. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha. (With inputs from agencies)

Priyanka Gandhi perfect choice for Congress president, CWC to take final call: Amarinder Singh

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday hoped that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led UP's BJP government will fulfill all the announcements made for the victims of Sonbhadra firing.

Taking a jibe at Yogi-led government, Priyanka said that when thousands of Congress party workers raised the voice for the victims, the state government realised that a serious incident had occurred.

"When thousands of Congress party workers were raising the voices of the victims in Ubbha village, the Uttar Pradesh government thought that a serious incident had taken place. I hope that all the announcements made by the state government are fulfilled. Adivasis should get the ownership of the land and more importantly, there should be proper security for the villagers," she tweeted.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Adityanath met the family members of the firing victims and handed over a cheque of Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the incident.

He later said at a press conference that an ex-gratia of Rs 18.5 lakh would be given to kin of the deceased and Rs 2.5 lakh each to the injured from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF) under the SC and ST provisions.

At least ten people including women were killed, while over 20 sustained injuries when a village headman and his associates allegedly opened fire at a group of people over a land dispute at Ubbha village in Ghorawal area in Sonbhadra district on July 17.

The incident took place when the village headman went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago.Twenty-nine people have been arrested and four officials have been suspended in connection with the incident.

Priyanka, who met the victims'&nbsp;families after a high-voltage political drama, also announced Rs 10 lakh to each of the families who lost their near ones in the firing.

Priyanka's visit had upped the temperature of the state politics after she was not allowed to visit the bereaved families and was put in detention at a guest house in the adjacent Mirzapur district.&nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday hoped that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led UP's BJP government will fulfill all the announcements made for the victims of Sonbhadra firing.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday hoped that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led UP's BJP government will fulfill all the announcements made for the victims of Sonbhadra firing. Taking a jibe at Yogi-led government, Priyanka said that when thousands of Congress party workers raised the voice for the victims, the state government realised that a serious incident had occurred. "When thousands of Congress party workers were raising the voices of the victims in Ubbha village, the Uttar Pradesh government thought that a serious incident had taken place. I hope that all the announcements made by the state government are fulfilled. Adivasis should get the ownership of the land and more importantly, there should be proper security for the villagers," she tweeted. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Adityanath met the family members of the firing victims and handed over a cheque of Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the incident. He later said at a press conference that an ex-gratia of Rs 18.5 lakh would be given to kin of the deceased and Rs 2.5 lakh each to the injured from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF) under the SC and ST provisions. At least ten people including women were killed, while over 20 sustained injuries when a village headman and his associates allegedly opened fire at a group of people over a land dispute at Ubbha village in Ghorawal area in Sonbhadra district on July 17. The incident took place when the village headman went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago.Twenty-nine people have been arrested and four officials have been suspended in connection with the incident. Priyanka, who met the victims' families after a high-voltage political drama, also announced Rs 10 lakh to each of the families who lost their near ones in the firing. Priyanka's visit had upped the temperature of the state politics after she was not allowed to visit the bereaved families and was put in detention at a guest house in the adjacent Mirzapur district.

Hope Uttar Pradesh government fulfills all announcements for Sonbhadra firing victims: Priyanka Gandhi

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spent a night at a guest house in Uttar Pradesh's Mirzapur after she was detained while on her way to Sonbhadra to meet July 17 firing victims.

On Friday, Priyanka Gandhi was stopped in Narayanpur by police and spent the night at Chunar Guest House.

According to a report by ANI, senior officials from the district administration met Priyanka Gandhi and tried to send her back to Varanasi but standing firm on her stand she told the officials that she won't leave without meeting the families of the victims.

"If the government wants to put me in jail for meeting the victims, I am fully prepared," she said on Twitter.

Further, she also said, "I will not furnish the bail amount; I will not pay a single penny. I had said if Section 144 is imposed in Sonbhadra, I won't violate it, 2 people will go. But the action was taken. I have been kept here for the last 7 hours. I would not move without meeting them."&nbsp;

The guest house where Priyanka had a power outage till late about 10 pm. Late at night, Congress party workers collected money and brought a generator on rent to ensure uninterrupted power supply at the guest house.

"The Uttar Pradesh government has sent ADG Varanasi Brij Bhushan, Commissioner Varanasi Deepak Agarwal, Commissioner Mirzapur, DIG Mirzapur for asking me to leave without meeting the victim families. They all are sitting with me for the last 1 hour. They have neither given any base nor any papers for keeping me under arrest," Priyanka informed on Twitter.&nbsp;

Outside Priyanka's room, police personnel maintained tight security vigil throughout the night while Congress workers slept on the floor, a little distance away.

The party workers staging sit-in with her have maintained that the fight will continue till she is allowed to go and meet the victims of Sonbhadra firing incident.

The Sonbhadra firing incident took place in Ubbha village of Ghorawal where the village head went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago.&nbsp;

However, he met with opposition from the villagers which triggered the firing allegedly by his aides leading to the deaths.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spent a night at a guest house in Uttar Pradesh's Mirzapur after she was detained while on her way to Sonbhadra to meet July 17 firing victims.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spent a night at a guest house in Uttar Pradesh's Mirzapur after she was detained while on her way to Sonbhadra to meet July 17 firing victims. On Friday, Priyanka Gandhi was stopped in Narayanpur by police and spent the night at Chunar Guest House. According to a report by ANI, senior officials from the district administration met Priyanka Gandhi and tried to send her back to Varanasi but standing firm on her stand she told the officials that she won't leave without meeting the families of the victims. "If the government wants to put me in jail for meeting the victims, I am fully prepared," she said on Twitter. Further, she also said, "I will not furnish the bail amount; I will not pay a single penny. I had said if Section 144 is imposed in Sonbhadra, I won't violate it, 2 people will go. But the action was taken. I have been kept here for the last 7 hours. I would not move without meeting them." The guest house where Priyanka had a power outage till late about 10 pm. Late at night, Congress party workers collected money and brought a generator on rent to ensure uninterrupted power supply at the guest house. "The Uttar Pradesh government has sent ADG Varanasi Brij Bhushan, Commissioner Varanasi Deepak Agarwal, Commissioner Mirzapur, DIG Mirzapur for asking me to leave without meeting the victim families. They all are sitting with me for the last 1 hour. They have neither given any base nor any papers for keeping me under arrest," Priyanka informed on Twitter. Outside Priyanka's room, police personnel maintained tight security vigil throughout the night while Congress workers slept on the floor, a little distance away. The party workers staging sit-in with her have maintained that the fight will continue till she is allowed to go and meet the victims of Sonbhadra firing incident. The Sonbhadra firing incident took place in Ubbha village of Ghorawal where the village head went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago. However, he met with opposition from the villagers which triggered the firing allegedly by his aides leading to the deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttar Pradesh: Priyanka Gandhi spends night at Mirzapur guest house; says will not leave without meeting families

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was devastated to hear about the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-delhi-chief-minister-congress-veteran-sheila-dikshit-passes-away-at-81-237286"> death of the former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit</a>.

Gandhi took to Twitter to express his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/she-made-noteworthy-contribution-to-delhis-development-pm-modi-remembers-sheila-dikshit-condolences-pour-in-237288">shock over the sudden demise of Dikshit</a> who breathed her last on Saturday.

"I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. My condolences to her family &amp; the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief."

Former PM Manmohan Singh also said he was shocked to hear about the demise of Sheila Dikshit.

"I'm shocked to hear the sudden passing away of Smt Shiela Dixit. In her death the country has lost a dedicated Congress leader of the masses. People of Delhi will always remember her contribution to Delhi's development during her tenure as CM for 3 terms," he said.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said she was deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit.&nbsp;"She loved me, whatever she did for Delhi and the country, people will remember it. She was a big leader of the party, her contribution towards party, politics of nation and especially to Delhi, is immense," Vadra&nbsp;added.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, "Just now got to know about extremely terrible news about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit ji. It's a huge loss for Delhi and her contribution will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family members. May her soul rest in peace"

Earlier PM Modi, President Kovind, Union Minister Rajnath Singh and several other leaders also paid homage to the veteran Congress leader.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. 
 
My condolences to her family &amp; the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1152536506587680768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Expressing his grief over the death of Dikshit, PM Modi tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti."

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was devastated to hear about the death of the former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit. Gandhi took to Twitter to express his shock over the sudden demise of Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was devastated to hear about the death of the former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit. Gandhi took to Twitter to express his shock over the sudden demise of Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday. "I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. My condolences to her family & the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief." Former PM Manmohan Singh also said he was shocked to hear about the demise of Sheila Dikshit. "I'm shocked to hear the sudden passing away of Smt Shiela Dixit. In her death the country has lost a dedicated Congress leader of the masses. People of Delhi will always remember her contribution to Delhi's development during her tenure as CM for 3 terms," he said. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said she was deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit. "She loved me, whatever she did for Delhi and the country, people will remember it. She was a big leader of the party, her contribution towards party, politics of nation and especially to Delhi, is immense," Vadra added. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, "Just now got to know about extremely terrible news about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit ji. It's a huge loss for Delhi and her contribution will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family members. May her soul rest in peace" Earlier PM Modi, President Kovind, Union Minister Rajnath Singh and several other leaders also paid homage to the veteran Congress leader. I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. My condolences to her family & the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 20, 2019 × Expressing his grief over the death of Dikshit, PM Modi tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti."

Rahul Gandhi 'devastated' on Sheila Dikshit's demise, calls her 'beloved daughter of Congress'

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-meets-two-relatives-of-sonbhadra-violance-victims-237252">Sonbhadra politics</a> and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort.

But the real question is whether, Sonbhadra is a starting point for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-priyanka-gandhi-spends-night-at-mirzapur-guest-house-says-will-not-leave-without-meeting-families-237228">Priyanka Gandhi</a>’s political rebirth and revival of the Congress politics, as many in Congress would like to believe.

In my opinion, it is neither a Belchi moment nor an inflexion point, where party charts out a course back to power. The Sonbhadra episode shows continuation of crisis and nervousness within the Congress party.

Before that, let us understand what Belchi was? It was a place where Dalits were killed by upper castes in Bihar. Indira Gandhi had made an unexpected journey to meet the victims, surprising her political opponents. The political episode revived Indira Gandhi’s fortune.

Congress-led by Indira Gandhi in 1977 had retained the whole of South India and lost majorly in North India. Congress got 154 seats in Lok Sabha. It still enjoyed 34.52 per cent of the vote share, nationally. The combined Opposition stood at 41.32 per cent.&nbsp;

The party in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly got 6.75 per cent of votes while in 2019 got just one Lok Sabha seat. BJP'S vote share was almost close to 50 per cent in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

In 2019, the national vote share of the Congress Party stood at 19.5 per cent whereas vote share of BJP stood at 38 per cent. Congress is nowhere close to that mark and nor does it have a firmly entrenched leader like Indira Gandhi at helms of the affairs, leave alone, vibrant state units.

Congress, for the first time after decades, does not even have a functional president. Rahul Gandhi is travelling abroad and sulking in public that seniors did not allow him to run the party freely. It is Rahul Gandhi’s successive second Lok Sabha defeat. Sonia Gandhi is inactive in the electoral politics and Priyanka Gandhi is only in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh.

On top of it, a section close to Rahul Gandhi wants elections in the party which will be a precursor for a split, nationally. The idea is to replicate what Indira Gandhi did to sideline the Syndicates 50 years back. But, that is not the case today as the charisma of Nehru’s daughter has been matched by the charisma of Narendra Modi. In 40 years, the dynasty has become a liability, politically. It is no more virtue or an asset for an aspiring politician like Priyanka Gandhi who, till now, has not contested even one election or held organizational post before 2019.

Sonbhadra episode shows that politics abhor a vacuum and Priyanka Gandhi filled it in Rahul Gandhi’s absence. It is for this reason, senior Congress leaders were scrambling to reach Varanasi airport.

But that is an arrangement within the party but not outside as Congress lacks a coherent ideology and organization in the state and also nationally.

It also does not have a chief ministerial candidate for Uttar Pradesh. Bhatta Parsaul is the best example of the failure of an episodic engagement in politics. &nbsp;Rahul Gandhi generated best of TV optics but lost Uttar Pradesh pretty badly to the Samajwadi Party in 2012. In my opinion, the mistake which Congress commits regularly in the context of larger social events like Sonbhadra is to make the political story revolve around Gandhi’s.

It is never matched with the groundwork after the event. It is here, the RSS-BJP combination outshines Congress. They have thousands of silent workers who in the absence of big leaders work tirelessly at the grassroots - something completely absent today in the case of Congress.

There is a saying in Hindi, “doobte ko tinke ka sahara milna,” this is an apt version for the event. What happened to the Ganga Yatra which Priyanka Gandhi undertook in Uttar Pradesh? It fetched zero results.

The only thing on the positive side is that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has shown political toughness at a time of crisis. She is working when the party is standing still. The electorate appreciates leaders who do not give up. Priyanka, by going to Uttar Pradesh, has demonstrated her will to not let go of her assignment. On top of it, the unexpected turnout of the event may have further vetted her appetite for a bigger political fight but the real work remains pending, that being what does the Congress party stands for?

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into Sonbhadra politics and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort.

Priyanka Gandhi’s sudden foray into Sonbhadra politics and Uttar Pradesh government’s subsequent high handedness turned a low-key affair into a media delight. A story that would have passed quietly acquired a political life when Priyanka Gandhi was detained at Chunnar fort. But the real question is whether, Sonbhadra is a starting point for Priyanka Gandhi’s political rebirth and revival of the Congress politics, as many in Congress would like to believe. In my opinion, it is neither a Belchi moment nor an inflexion point, where party charts out a course back to power. The Sonbhadra episode shows continuation of crisis and nervousness within the Congress party. Before that, let us understand what Belchi was? It was a place where Dalits were killed by upper castes in Bihar. Indira Gandhi had made an unexpected journey to meet the victims, surprising her political opponents. The political episode revived Indira Gandhi’s fortune. Congress-led by Indira Gandhi in 1977 had retained the whole of South India and lost majorly in North India. Congress got 154 seats in Lok Sabha. It still enjoyed 34.52 per cent of the vote share, nationally. The combined Opposition stood at 41.32 per cent. The party in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly got 6.75 per cent of votes while in 2019 got just one Lok Sabha seat. BJP'S vote share was almost close to 50 per cent in Uttar Pradesh. In 2019, the national vote share of the Congress Party stood at 19.5 per cent whereas vote share of BJP stood at 38 per cent. Congress is nowhere close to that mark and nor does it have a firmly entrenched leader like Indira Gandhi at helms of the affairs, leave alone, vibrant state units. Congress, for the first time after decades, does not even have a functional president. Rahul Gandhi is travelling abroad and sulking in public that seniors did not allow him to run the party freely. It is Rahul Gandhi’s successive second Lok Sabha defeat. Sonia Gandhi is inactive in the electoral politics and Priyanka Gandhi is only in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. On top of it, a section close to Rahul Gandhi wants elections in the party which will be a precursor for a split, nationally. The idea is to replicate what Indira Gandhi did to sideline the Syndicates 50 years back. But, that is not the case today as the charisma of Nehru’s daughter has been matched by the charisma of Narendra Modi. In 40 years, the dynasty has become a liability, politically. It is no more virtue or an asset for an aspiring politician like Priyanka Gandhi who, till now, has not contested even one election or held organizational post before 2019. Sonbhadra episode shows that politics abhor a vacuum and Priyanka Gandhi filled it in Rahul Gandhi’s absence. It is for this reason, senior Congress leaders were scrambling to reach Varanasi airport. But that is an arrangement within the party but not outside as Congress lacks a coherent ideology and organization in the state and also nationally. It also does not have a chief ministerial candidate for Uttar Pradesh. Bhatta Parsaul is the best example of the failure of an episodic engagement in politics. Rahul Gandhi generated best of TV optics but lost Uttar Pradesh pretty badly to the Samajwadi Party in 2012. In my opinion, the mistake which Congress commits regularly in the context of larger social events like Sonbhadra is to make the political story revolve around Gandhi’s. It is never matched with the groundwork after the event. It is here, the RSS-BJP combination outshines Congress. They have thousands of silent workers who in the absence of big leaders work tirelessly at the grassroots - something completely absent today in the case of Congress. There is a saying in Hindi, “doobte ko tinke ka sahara milna,” this is an apt version for the event. What happened to the Ganga Yatra which Priyanka Gandhi undertook in Uttar Pradesh? It fetched zero results. The only thing on the positive side is that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has shown political toughness at a time of crisis. She is working when the party is standing still. The electorate appreciates leaders who do not give up. Priyanka, by going to Uttar Pradesh, has demonstrated her will to not let go of her assignment. On top of it, the unexpected turnout of the event may have further vetted her appetite for a bigger political fight but the real work remains pending, that being what does the Congress party stands for? (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

A Belchi moment for Congress party? No; good job by Priyanka? Yes

Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-to-visit-sonbhadra-to-meet-families-of-july-17-firing-victims-237044">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra </a>was detained in Uttar Pradesh on Friday while she was on her to Sonbhadra to meet the family members of those who were killed in firing over a land dispute on July 17.&nbsp;

She was detained after section Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code was imposed in the area just before her scheduled visit. Section 144 prohibits an assembly of more than four people in an area.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra detained in Narayanpur by Police. She was on her way to meet victims of firing case in Sonbhadra where section 144 has been imposed. Says 'I don't know where are they taking me, we are ready to go anywhere.' <a href="https://t.co/YF2kIXA9DL">pic.twitter.com/YF2kIXA9DL</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1152106534102589441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Apart from meeting the family members, Priyanka was also expected to visit the place of the incident.

The incident took place in Ubbha village of Ghorawal where the village head went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago.

However, he met with opposition from the villagers which triggered the firing allegedly by his aides leading to the deaths."Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the incident and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased.

According to police, nine people were killed in the firing.

So far 29 criminals have been arrested till now in connection with the case, state chief minister Yogi Adityanath said in a press conference today.

"A single barrel gun, 3 double-barrel guns and a rifle seized. Whoever is found responsible for this incident, strictest action will be taken against them," he added.

Five people were arrested on July 18 in connection with the case.

On the day of the incident, Priyanka Gandhi had criticised the state government over the law and order situation.

Taking to Twitter, she had said, "In the BJP ruled state, the confidence of criminals is so high that broad day-light killings are continuously happening. The killing of 9 Gond tribesmen, including 3 women, by the land mafia in Umbha village of Sonbhadra is heart-wrenching. Administration and Chief Minister are all sleeping. Is this how the state will be crime-free?"

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was detained in Uttar Pradesh on Friday while she was on her to Sonbhadra to meet the family members of those who were killed in firing over a land dispute on July 17.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was detained in Uttar Pradesh on Friday while she was on her to Sonbhadra to meet the family members of those who were killed in firing over a land dispute on July 17. She was detained after section Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code was imposed in the area just before her scheduled visit. Section 144 prohibits an assembly of more than four people in an area. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra detained in Narayanpur by Police. She was on her way to meet victims of firing case in Sonbhadra where section 144 has been imposed. Says 'I don't know where are they taking me, we are ready to go anywhere.' pic.twitter.com/YF2kIXA9DL — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) July 19, 2019 × Apart from meeting the family members, Priyanka was also expected to visit the place of the incident. The incident took place in Ubbha village of Ghorawal where the village head went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago. However, he met with opposition from the villagers which triggered the firing allegedly by his aides leading to the deaths."Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the incident and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased. According to police, nine people were killed in the firing. So far 29 criminals have been arrested till now in connection with the case, state chief minister Yogi Adityanath said in a press conference today. "A single barrel gun, 3 double-barrel guns and a rifle seized. Whoever is found responsible for this incident, strictest action will be taken against them," he added. Five people were arrested on July 18 in connection with the case. On the day of the incident, Priyanka Gandhi had criticised the state government over the law and order situation. Taking to Twitter, she had said, "In the BJP ruled state, the confidence of criminals is so high that broad day-light killings are continuously happening. The killing of 9 Gond tribesmen, including 3 women, by the land mafia in Umbha village of Sonbhadra is heart-wrenching. Administration and Chief Minister are all sleeping. Is this how the state will be crime-free?"

Uttar Pradesh: Priyanka Gandhi detained on her way to meet firing victims

Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-to-visit-sonbhadra-to-meet-families-of-july-17-firing-victims-237044">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra </a>was detained in Uttar Pradesh on Friday while she was on her to Sonbhadra to meet the family members of those who were killed in firing over a land dispute on July 17.&nbsp;

She was detained after section Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code was imposed in the area just before her scheduled visit. Section 144 prohibits an assembly of more than four people in an area.&nbsp;

'I don't know where are they taking me, we are ready to go anywhere,' said Priyanka Gandhi while she was detained by police in Narayanpur, 61.4 km away from Sonbhadra.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra detained in Narayanpur by Police. She was on her way to meet victims of firing case in Sonbhadra where section 144 has been imposed. Says 'I don't know where are they taking me, we are ready to go anywhere.' <a href="https://t.co/YF2kIXA9DL">pic.twitter.com/YF2kIXA9DL</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1152106534102589441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Apart from meeting the family members, Priyanka was also expected to visit the place of the incident.

The incident took place in Ubbha village of Ghorawal where the village head went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago.

However, he met with opposition from the villagers which triggered the firing allegedly by his aides leading to the deaths."Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the incident and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased.

According to police, nine people were killed in the firing.

So far 29 criminals have been arrested till now in connection with the case, state chief minister Yogi Adityanath said in a press conference today.

"A single barrel gun, 3 double-barrel guns and a rifle seized. Whoever is found responsible for this incident, strictest action will be taken against them," he added.

Five people were arrested on July 18 in connection with the case.

On the day of the incident, Priyanka Gandhi had criticised the state government over the law and order situation.

Taking to Twitter, she had said, "In the BJP ruled state, the confidence of criminals is so high that broad day-light killings are continuously happening. The killing of 9 Gond tribesmen, including 3 women, by the land mafia in Umbha village of Sonbhadra is heart-wrenching. Administration and Chief Minister are all sleeping. Is this how the state will be crime-free?"

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was detained in Uttar Pradesh on Friday while she was on her to Sonbhadra to meet the family members of those who were killed in firing over a land dispute on July 17. She was detained after section Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code was imposed in the area just before her scheduled visit. Section 144 prohibits an assembly of more than four people in an area. 'I don't know where are they taking me, we are ready to go anywhere,' said Priyanka Gandhi while she was detained by police in Narayanpur, 61.4 km away from Sonbhadra. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra detained in Narayanpur by Police. She was on her way to meet victims of firing case in Sonbhadra where section 144 has been imposed. Says 'I don't know where are they taking me, we are ready to go anywhere.' pic.twitter.com/YF2kIXA9DL — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) July 19, 2019 × Apart from meeting the family members, Priyanka was also expected to visit the place of the incident. The incident took place in Ubbha village of Ghorawal where the village head went to take possession of his land purchased two years ago. However, he met with opposition from the villagers which triggered the firing allegedly by his aides leading to the deaths."Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the incident and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased. According to police, nine people were killed in the firing. So far 29 criminals have been arrested till now in connection with the case, state chief minister Yogi Adityanath said in a press conference today. "A single barrel gun, 3 double-barrel guns and a rifle seized. Whoever is found responsible for this incident, strictest action will be taken against them," he added. Five people were arrested on July 18 in connection with the case. On the day of the incident, Priyanka Gandhi had criticised the state government over the law and order situation. Taking to Twitter, she had said, "In the BJP ruled state, the confidence of criminals is so high that broad day-light killings are continuously happening. The killing of 9 Gond tribesmen, including 3 women, by the land mafia in Umbha village of Sonbhadra is heart-wrenching. Administration and Chief Minister are all sleeping. Is this how the state will be crime-free?"

Uttar Pradesh: Priyanka Gandhi detained on her way to meet families of July 17 firing victims

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government accusing it of not taking strict action against officials extorting money from people. 
 
Taking to Twitter, she said, "Like Neeraj, there are many others who are also facing the same issue. For everything, money is taken from them and no one addresses their grievances. My heart is aching. Where the BJP government is sleeping?." 
 
The statement from Vadra came just days after a flour-mill owner committed suicide after being allegedly harassed by a state government official. 
 
Identified as Niraj Kumar, the reportedly consumed poison in the premises of Bijnor Collectorate on Tuesday. In a suicide note recovered from the spot, he claimed that he was being harassed by a junior engineer of the state power corporation. Saini had been booked Kumar in a power theft case. More details in this regard are awaited.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government accusing it of not taking strict action against officials extorting money from people.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government accusing it of not taking strict action against officials extorting money from people. Taking to Twitter, she said, "Like Neeraj, there are many others who are also facing the same issue. For everything, money is taken from them and no one addresses their grievances. My heart is aching. Where the BJP government is sleeping?." The statement from Vadra came just days after a flour-mill owner committed suicide after being allegedly harassed by a state government official. Identified as Niraj Kumar, the reportedly consumed poison in the premises of Bijnor Collectorate on Tuesday. In a suicide note recovered from the spot, he claimed that he was being harassed by a junior engineer of the state power corporation. Saini had been booked Kumar in a power theft case. More details in this regard are awaited.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tears into UP government over corruption

Madras high court on Friday granted 30-day parole to Nalini Sriharan who is serving life imprisonment in connection with the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

Nalini was granted parole on condition that during the period she&nbsp;would not be allowed to meet politicians or interact with the media.

On June 25, the HC had granted permission to Nalini to appear in person on July 5 and argue on her plea for six months ordinary leave to make arrangements for her daughter's wedding.

Nalini was initially sentenced to death, however, her death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment by the Tamil Nadu government on April 24, 2000. 
 
Nalini's argument was that a life convict is entitled to a one-month leave once in two years and since she had never availed such ordinary leave for more than 27 years, she was entitled to take a leave now. She had appealed on February 25 for the six months leave to make arrangements for her daughter's marriage.

She claimed that after commutation of her death sentence, around 3,700 life convicts, who had served 10 years of imprisonment and less, were released by the Tamil Nadu government.

Former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a LTTE suicide bomber during an election rally at Sriperumpudur on May 21, 1991.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

Madras high court on Friday granted 30-day parole to Nalini Sriharan who is serving life imprisonment in connection with the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. Nalini was granted parole on condition that during the period she would not be allowed to meet politicians or interact with the media.

Madras high court on Friday granted 30-day parole to Nalini Sriharan who is serving life imprisonment in connection with the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. Nalini was granted parole on condition that during the period she would not be allowed to meet politicians or interact with the media. On June 25, the HC had granted permission to Nalini to appear in person on July 5 and argue on her plea for six months ordinary leave to make arrangements for her daughter's wedding. Nalini was initially sentenced to death, however, her death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment by the Tamil Nadu government on April 24, 2000. Nalini's argument was that a life convict is entitled to a one-month leave once in two years and since she had never availed such ordinary leave for more than 27 years, she was entitled to take a leave now. She had appealed on February 25 for the six months leave to make arrangements for her daughter's marriage. She claimed that after commutation of her death sentence, around 3,700 life convicts, who had served 10 years of imprisonment and less, were released by the Tamil Nadu government. Former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a LTTE suicide bomber during an election rally at Sriperumpudur on May 21, 1991. (With inputs from PTI)

Rajiv Gandhi assassination case: Convict Nalini Sriharan granted 30-day parole

A day after Rahul Gandhi made&nbsp;his resignation letter public, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday took to Twitter extending her support to&nbsp;Rahul.

"Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision," tweeted Priyanka.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Few have the courage that you do <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rahulgandhi</a>. Deepest respect for your decision. <a href="https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P">https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1146619515339444224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On Wednesday, Rahul had tweeted his resignation letter as party president, asking Congress to decide on the new party chief without any further delay.

"It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind," he tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. 
 
I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. 
 
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/WWGYt5YG4V">pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1146359704815194112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rahul has also removed the tag of party president from his Twitter bio. He changed his bio from "President of Indian National Congress" to "Member of Indian National Congress." "This is the official account of Rahul Gandhi | Member of the Indian National Congress| Member of Parliament," his bio on Twitter now reads.

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed.

On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation.&nbsp;

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Rahul Gandhi made his resignation letter public, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday took to Twitter extending her support to Rahul. "Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi.

A day after Rahul Gandhi made his resignation letter public, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday took to Twitter extending her support to Rahul. "Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision," tweeted Priyanka. Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision. https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 4, 2019 × On Wednesday, Rahul had tweeted his resignation letter as party president, asking Congress to decide on the new party chief without any further delay. "It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind," he tweeted. It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 3, 2019 × Rahul has also removed the tag of party president from his Twitter bio. He changed his bio from "President of Indian National Congress" to "Member of Indian National Congress." "This is the official account of Rahul Gandhi | Member of the Indian National Congress| Member of Parliament," his bio on Twitter now reads. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed. On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha. (With inputs from agencies)

'Few have the courage': Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Rahul's resignation

Nothing is permanent in politics and things can change quickly. Indian politics too is not immune to this dogma. The present crisis in&nbsp;Congress has&nbsp;brought a sidelined player to the centre stage. 
 
Ahmed Patel served as political secretary to Sonia Gandhi and virtually ran the party for 15 years. 80 per cent of the appointments within the Congress during his heydays were influenced by him. Despite the power he enjoyed, Patel was the most self-effacing and media-shy politician.

He hated his name on papers. He avoided TV to his best but still knew every reporter and editor by name. He continues with this habit but now and then indulges himself with an occasional television byte.

He was systematically sidelined by new Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The new president wanted his team in place and he got one slowly which had more outsiders than ever.

In fact, Rahul&nbsp;sidelined most of the Congress leaders who were associated with Ahmed Patel. Few close to him survived. They survived because they were powerful leaders in their respective states. The best example is Ashok Gehlot. Despite the onslaught and systematic neglect, Ahmed Patel held on to the party. He did not walk away.

He fought Rajya Sabha elections alone without any party support. It is not without significance that it took Rahul Gandhi more than 4 hours to congratulate him. He survived because he had obliged many in the 10 years Congress was in power. He did not make many enemies barring Amit Shah which was unavoidable.&nbsp;

Such was his resilience that he would often snub journalists for writing on all the work he did quietly for Gandhis. Though, he could not save his friend Janardan Dwivedi. It is said that he could not take a stand when Rahul Gandhi was altering the party in his image.

Things changed. Today, there is no leader except him in the Congress who can build a network quietly. He is the only one with whom his contemporaries and chief ministers are willing to talk. He is the glue today which can connect with each and every person in Congress. He may not be able to influence decisions unilaterally the way he did&nbsp;in the past, but he can still bring everyone on the table. The old man is back in the game again.

He still manages to get time to meet Sonia Gandhi. Though there was a time that even Sonia Gandhi was seeing less of him. Now, the party needs him more than ever.

Sonia and Rahul&nbsp;have taken a step back and Priyanka&nbsp;is confined to Uttar Pradesh. Priyanka will have to prove herself to become a contender at the national level. Rahul Gandhi is not a contender today and Sonia Gandhi, much respected will never occupy the centre stage again. In this case, it is Ahmed Patel who has been left with the baby crying. It is him, who is meeting people to create a consensus in the party in the absence of Rahul Gandhi moving away. If one has to understand as to what is happening in Congress, one may need to work their phone lines with Ahmad Patel again.

It is also true that the office of Rahul Gandhi is counting people&nbsp;who demonstrated their loyalty in time of Rahul’s utmost humiliation at hustings. Perhaps, Rahul Gandhi wanted others to resign in large numbers. It did not happen. One reason was&nbsp;that the show of support in Delhi was a big flop. The irony is that it ultimately took Ahmed Patel to create a face-saving exit for 150 loyalists who were sitting in to create pressure on Rahul Gandhi so that he withdraws his resignation.

Ahmed Patel can never be the king. In past, he was the kingmaker. He can play this role for a few more years. The choice is wide open for the party. It can either go for a loyalist and subsequently&nbsp;reignite its love affair with a younger Gandhi or chart a new journey with a new non-dynastic leader who can remake the Congress party. The game is on. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Nothing is permanent in politics and things can change quickly. Indian politics too is not immune to this dogma. The present crisis in Congress has brought a sidelined player to the centre stage.

Nothing is permanent in politics and things can change quickly. Indian politics too is not immune to this dogma. The present crisis in Congress has brought a sidelined player to the centre stage. Ahmed Patel served as political secretary to Sonia Gandhi and virtually ran the party for 15 years. 80 per cent of the appointments within the Congress during his heydays were influenced by him. Despite the power he enjoyed, Patel was the most self-effacing and media-shy politician. He hated his name on papers. He avoided TV to his best but still knew every reporter and editor by name. He continues with this habit but now and then indulges himself with an occasional television byte. He was systematically sidelined by new Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The new president wanted his team in place and he got one slowly which had more outsiders than ever. In fact, Rahul sidelined most of the Congress leaders who were associated with Ahmed Patel. Few close to him survived. They survived because they were powerful leaders in their respective states. The best example is Ashok Gehlot. Despite the onslaught and systematic neglect, Ahmed Patel held on to the party. He did not walk away. He fought Rajya Sabha elections alone without any party support. It is not without significance that it took Rahul Gandhi more than 4 hours to congratulate him. He survived because he had obliged many in the 10 years Congress was in power. He did not make many enemies barring Amit Shah which was unavoidable. Such was his resilience that he would often snub journalists for writing on all the work he did quietly for Gandhis. Though, he could not save his friend Janardan Dwivedi. It is said that he could not take a stand when Rahul Gandhi was altering the party in his image. Things changed. Today, there is no leader except him in the Congress who can build a network quietly. He is the only one with whom his contemporaries and chief ministers are willing to talk. He is the glue today which can connect with each and every person in Congress. He may not be able to influence decisions unilaterally the way he did in the past, but he can still bring everyone on the table. The old man is back in the game again. He still manages to get time to meet Sonia Gandhi. Though there was a time that even Sonia Gandhi was seeing less of him. Now, the party needs him more than ever. Sonia and Rahul have taken a step back and Priyanka is confined to Uttar Pradesh. Priyanka will have to prove herself to become a contender at the national level. Rahul Gandhi is not a contender today and Sonia Gandhi, much respected will never occupy the centre stage again. In this case, it is Ahmed Patel who has been left with the baby crying. It is him, who is meeting people to create a consensus in the party in the absence of Rahul Gandhi moving away. If one has to understand as to what is happening in Congress, one may need to work their phone lines with Ahmad Patel again. It is also true that the office of Rahul Gandhi is counting people who demonstrated their loyalty in time of Rahul’s utmost humiliation at hustings. Perhaps, Rahul Gandhi wanted others to resign in large numbers. It did not happen. One reason was that the show of support in Delhi was a big flop. The irony is that it ultimately took Ahmed Patel to create a face-saving exit for 150 loyalists who were sitting in to create pressure on Rahul Gandhi so that he withdraws his resignation. Ahmed Patel can never be the king. In past, he was the kingmaker. He can play this role for a few more years. The choice is wide open for the party. It can either go for a loyalist and subsequently reignite its love affair with a younger Gandhi or chart a new journey with a new non-dynastic leader who can remake the Congress party. The game is on. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The return of Ahmed Patel

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and former Uttarakhand chief minister, Harish Rawat, on Thursday tendered his resignation from his post, taking the responsibility of the party's defeat in 2019 &nbsp;Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI.

The development comes a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/honour-for-me-to-serve-congress-party-rahul-gandhi-tweets-his-resignation-letter-232732">Rahul Gandhi had tweeted his resignation</a> letter, asking Congress to appoint a new party chief without any further delay.

Earlier this month, Rawat had said that under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi Congress can go from defeat to victory. "We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister had said.

"We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister said.

Rahul Gandhi had first offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed.&nbsp;

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and former Uttarakhand chief minister, Harish Rawat, on Thursday tendered his resignation from his post, taking the responsibility of the party's defeat in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI.

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and former Uttarakhand chief minister, Harish Rawat, on Thursday tendered his resignation from his post, taking the responsibility of the party's defeat in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI. The development comes a day after Rahul Gandhi had tweeted his resignation letter, asking Congress to appoint a new party chief without any further delay. Earlier this month, Rawat had said that under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi Congress can go from defeat to victory. "We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister had said. "We were not successful, but by strengthening the organisation, we can mount a challenge to the RSS-BJP's malicious propaganda," the former Uttarakhand chief minister said. Rahul Gandhi had first offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

AICC General Secretary Harish Rawat resigns, takes responsibility for Congress's debacle in Lok Sabha elections

Apart from the drama of absurd which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cms-of-congress-ruled-states-to-meet-rahul-gandhi-today-to-urge-against-the-resignation-decision-231881">Congress party may witness</a> on Tuesday, Congress Working Committee (CWC) is all set to meet either on Wednesday or Thursday to discuss the future of the party.&nbsp;

Despite young office holders planning to go in an indefinite strike in AICC to persuade Rahul Gandhi to remain as Congress president, two names have emerged as front runners for the position of the party president.&nbsp;

Two names are - former home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and former leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge. Though Shinde lost the elections and also came under political storm because of the saffron terror controversy, he remains a Gandhi loyalist.&nbsp;

Shinde has also served in various positions in his forty-year career which includes the position of a governor and union minister. Mallikarjun Kharge's too is a very senior leader who started his career in 1972 but his stint at the Centre started in 2014 when he was appointed as the leader of the Congress Parliamentary Party in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

As a last-ditch move, Congress chief ministers are meeting Rahul Gandhi to impress upon him that he should continue as the president of the party.

Sources also say that Rahul Gandhi remains firm on his decision and may join his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra with his mother Sonia Gandhi by end of the week in the United States where Robert Vadra is undergoing surgery.

It is a matter of debate as to what will happen inside the Congress Working Committee, but senior leaders have confirmed that the only way to end the crisis in the party is to convene the CWC. Only the CWC can pass a resolution for a particular person, as the name can only be ratified by the AICC. As per the rule, senior most general secretary of AICC can convene a CWC in the absence of a president.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in a related development, an open rift has opened between junior and senior leaders. A source in the Congress confirmed that leaders going on protest have been told that they must not name senior leaders from the podium to resign. A point to be noted is that as of now no senior leader, CWC member or chief minister has offered to resign.

Apart from the drama of absurd which Congress party may witness on Tuesday, Congress Working Committee (CWC) is all set to meet either on Wednesday or Thursday to discuss the future of the party.

Apart from the drama of absurd which Congress party may witness on Tuesday, Congress Working Committee (CWC) is all set to meet either on Wednesday or Thursday to discuss the future of the party. Despite young office holders planning to go in an indefinite strike in AICC to persuade Rahul Gandhi to remain as Congress president, two names have emerged as front runners for the position of the party president. Two names are - former home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and former leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge. Though Shinde lost the elections and also came under political storm because of the saffron terror controversy, he remains a Gandhi loyalist. Shinde has also served in various positions in his forty-year career which includes the position of a governor and union minister. Mallikarjun Kharge's too is a very senior leader who started his career in 1972 but his stint at the Centre started in 2014 when he was appointed as the leader of the Congress Parliamentary Party in Lok Sabha. As a last-ditch move, Congress chief ministers are meeting Rahul Gandhi to impress upon him that he should continue as the president of the party. Sources also say that Rahul Gandhi remains firm on his decision and may join his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra with his mother Sonia Gandhi by end of the week in the United States where Robert Vadra is undergoing surgery. It is a matter of debate as to what will happen inside the Congress Working Committee, but senior leaders have confirmed that the only way to end the crisis in the party is to convene the CWC. Only the CWC can pass a resolution for a particular person, as the name can only be ratified by the AICC. As per the rule, senior most general secretary of AICC can convene a CWC in the absence of a president. Meanwhile, in a related development, an open rift has opened between junior and senior leaders. A source in the Congress confirmed that leaders going on protest have been told that they must not name senior leaders from the podium to resign. A point to be noted is that as of now no senior leader, CWC member or chief minister has offered to resign.

Sushil Kumar Shinde emerges frontrunner as CWC set to meet this week

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-will-make-no-difference-to-bjps-poll-prospects-in-up-yogi-adityanath-203705">Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath </a>on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state.

On Saturday, Priyanka had claimed that incidents of crime are on the rise in Uttar Pradesh, and criminals were "roaming freely" in the state.

"In Uttar Pradesh criminals are roaming freely and doing whatever they want. Criminal incidents are taking place one after the other. However, its BJP government has turned deaf. Has the Uttar Pradesh government surrendered before criminals?" she had tweeted in Hindi along with a collage of news reports indicating various incidents of crime.

In response to the claim, Adityanath, while addressing media here, said, "It is a case of sour grapes (angoor khatte hai). Her party president (Rahul Gandhi) lost from Uttar Pradesh. So while sitting anywhere &nbsp;Delhi, Italy or England &nbsp;they have to comment in order to remain in the news."

Minutes after Priyanka`s tweet, Uttar Pradesh police responded by explaining how effective the police has been in combating crime, citing statistics.

"UP Police has taken strict action against serious offenders. In two years, 9,225 criminals have been arrested and 81 have been killed. Illegal assets of more than 200 crore people have been seized under the National Security Act and there has been an unprecedented decline in dacoity, murder, loot and kidnappings," read a tweet on the official page.

"Because of UP Police`s effective working, there has been a 20-35 per cent decline in crimes. All sensational crimes have been solved in 48 hours," the police said in another tweet.

While addressing the press conference, Adityanath also rubbished reports of several Hindus being forced to leave Meerut and said, "Nobody is migrating, who will migrate now that we have come to power? There might be some cases of personal disputes but there is no migration."

A complaint was lodged on the NaMo app by a social worker claiming that 125 Hindu families had migrated from Prahlad Nagar in Meerut. The complainant claimed that Hindu families are selling their homes and migrating out of fear.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state. On Saturday, Priyanka had claimed that incidents of crime are on the rise in Uttar Pradesh, and criminals were "roaming freely" in the state. "In Uttar Pradesh criminals are roaming freely and doing whatever they want. Criminal incidents are taking place one after the other. However, its BJP government has turned deaf. Has the Uttar Pradesh government surrendered before criminals?" she had tweeted in Hindi along with a collage of news reports indicating various incidents of crime. In response to the claim, Adityanath, while addressing media here, said, "It is a case of sour grapes (angoor khatte hai). Her party president (Rahul Gandhi) lost from Uttar Pradesh. So while sitting anywhere Delhi, Italy or England they have to comment in order to remain in the news." Minutes after Priyanka`s tweet, Uttar Pradesh police responded by explaining how effective the police has been in combating crime, citing statistics. "UP Police has taken strict action against serious offenders. In two years, 9,225 criminals have been arrested and 81 have been killed. Illegal assets of more than 200 crore people have been seized under the National Security Act and there has been an unprecedented decline in dacoity, murder, loot and kidnappings," read a tweet on the official page. "Because of UP Police`s effective working, there has been a 20-35 per cent decline in crimes. All sensational crimes have been solved in 48 hours," the police said in another tweet. While addressing the press conference, Adityanath also rubbished reports of several Hindus being forced to leave Meerut and said, "Nobody is migrating, who will migrate now that we have come to power? There might be some cases of personal disputes but there is no migration." A complaint was lodged on the NaMo app by a social worker claiming that 125 Hindu families had migrated from Prahlad Nagar in Meerut. The complainant claimed that Hindu families are selling their homes and migrating out of fear.

CM Yogi Adityanath hits back at Priyanka Gandhi over tweet on rising crime in Uttar Pradesh

priyanka-gandhi

Priyanka Gandhi, News on Priyanka Gandhi, stories on Priyanka Gandhi, articles on Priyanka Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi stories at Wion, Priyanka Gandhi news, Priyanka Gandhi latest news

priyanka gandhi