Can Rahul Gandhi Reclaim Congress's Influence in Delhi? (X/ @UnPaidTimes)
New Delhi: The political landscape in Delhi is heating up as Congress MP Rahul Gandhi embarks on his campaign trail today for the upcoming assembly elections. This marks Gandhi's inaugural rally in the capital, and it comes at a time when tensions are palpable between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress, both members of the INDIA coalition. Observers are keen to see whether Gandhi will address AAP's recent criticisms of Congress or adhere to the principles of coalition unity.
Just six months after contesting the Lok Sabha elections together, the relationship between Congress and AAP has soured significantly. The AAP, which previously collaborated with Congress to present a united front against the BJP-led NDA, now finds itself at odds with its former ally. Notably, several parties within the INDIA bloc have rallied behind AAP in its bid for the Delhi assembly elections. This includes support from Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress, Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party, and Shiv Sena (UBT), further complicating the political dynamics.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and Rajya Sabha AAP MP Sanjay Singh have been vocal about their grievances regarding Congress's actions, claiming they undermine AAP's electoral prospects in Delhi. Singh has accused Congress leaders of acting as "BJP stooges," suggesting that their statements serve to benefit the BJP rather than support their coalition partner. "Congress is doing everything to ensure that the BJP benefits in the election," Singh stated during a recent press conference.
Despite internal conflicts, Rahul Gandhi's campaign is expected to concentrate primarily on critiquing the policies of the Delhi government rather than launching personal attacks against AAP leaders. Sources indicate that Gandhi aims to position Congress as a viable alternative in Delhi, where he will address a public meeting titled “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan” in Seelampur at 5:30 PM today.
The 70-member Delhi Assembly is set to vote on February 5, with results announced on February 8. Historically, AAP has dominated previous elections, winning 67 seats in 2015 and 62 in 2020, while Congress failed to secure any seats. As this election approaches, it appears to be shaping up into a three-way contest among AAP, Congress, and BJP.Qazi Nizamuddin, AICC Delhi in-charge, emphasized Gandhi’s role as a voice for the people:
“Wherever there was an issue, Gandhi reached there and raised people’s voice.” With tensions rising and alliances shifting, all eyes will be on today's rally as Rahul Gandhi seeks to reclaim ground for Congress in Delhi.
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