In dilemma on whether to retain Wayanad or Rae Bareli LS seat, says Rahul Gandhi

PTI, Jun 12, 2024, 2:55 PM IST

In a striking development, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has found himself in a unique predicament after winning from both Wayanad and Rae Bareli in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Speaking at a public meeting on Wednesday, Gandhi expressed his indecision on which seat to vacate, assuring that both constituencies would be satisfied with his decision.

Gandhi extended his gratitude to Wayanad for electing him for a second term, stating, ‘I look forward to seeing you soon. I have a dilemma before me, whether I should be the MP of Wayanad or Rae Bareli. What I will commit to you is that both Wayanad and Rae Bareli will be happy with my decision.’

During the event, Gandhi seized the opportunity to take a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He mocked Modi’s claim of being divinely guided, contrasting it with his own approach. ‘My God are the poor people of India. My gods are the people of Wayanad,’ he said. Gandhi made it clear that he believes in listening to the people’s needs, not divine interventions.

The Congress leader also emphasized the importance of protecting India’s Constitution, asserting that the country’s diverse traditions, languages, and cultures must be preserved. He criticized the PM and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for attempting to dictate national practices.

‘The people of Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, and all other states showed the PM that you cannot dictate to us what we want. The people of India told them that the Constitution is our voice. Do not touch the Constitution,’ Gandhi declared. He further claimed that the BJP had faced significant defeats, even hinting at the PM’s narrow escape in Varanasi.

Gandhi concluded by criticizing the current government as ‘crippled’ and committing the opposition to a vision of a ‘fairer and more productive society.’