Decision on Amethi and Raebareli Lok Sabha Seats Awaits Gandhi Siblings’ Choice, Says Congress General Secretary

Amid heightened anticipation surrounding the Amethi and Raebareli Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh emphasized that the decision rests with Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, labeling it as “their personal choice.”

Ramesh noted that both leaders are prominent campaigners for the Congress party and have actively participated in election campaigns nationwide. He indicated that an official announcement regarding their candidacies is expected by Thursday evening.

Speaking to ANI, Ramesh stated, “The CEC [Congress Election Committee] has entrusted the party president with the entire responsibility, and I anticipate an official declaration by this evening. While we urge Rahul Gandhi to contest from Amethi and Priyanka Gandhi from Raebareli, they must balance their election engagements across the country. While they are our leading campaigners, the CEC, Congress organization, and party workers advocate for Rahul Gandhi in Amethi and Priyanka Gandhi in Raebareli. However, the ultimate decision lies with them.”

Expressing confidence in the INDI alliance, Ramesh predicted a significant reduction in BJP’s seats and emphasized the alliance’s potential to secure a decisive mandate.

“After the initial phase of elections, it’s apparent that ‘BJP Dakshin mein saaf, uttar mein half’ [BJP clear in the south, halved in the north]. The BJP’s seat share is expected to diminish substantially in the second phase. Following the first and second phases, it’s evident that the INDI alliance is poised to secure a clear and decisive mandate,” Ramesh asserted.

Further underscoring Congress’ commitment to expanding reservation quotas for SC/ST/OBC communities, Ramesh posed a question to the Prime Minister and Home Minister regarding the current 50% reservation cap.

“I have a single query for the PM and Home Minister: the existing reservation cap for SCs, STs, and OBCs stands at 50%. Will you consider lifting this cap? Our ‘Nyay Patra’ [Manifesto] explicitly states our intent to surpass the 50% threshold,” Ramesh concluded.

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