After Rahul Gandhi, here's why sister Priyanka Gandhi opted out of Amethi poll race against Smriti Irani

The Congress party has clarified its stance regarding Priyanka Gandhi's role amidst Rahul Gandhi's candidature from Rae Bareli and Kishori Lal Sharma's nomination from Amethi. The party emphasized the importance of not limiting Priyanka Gandhi's role to a single constituency, considering her extensive campaigning across the country.

Congress's response comes after announcing Rahul Gandhi's candidacy from Rae Bareli and Kishori Lal Sharma's nomination from Amethi. Speculations had earlier suggested that both Rahul Gandhi would be fielded from Rae Bareli Priyanka Gandhi would be fielded from Amethi.

Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary, highlighted Priyanka Gandhi's active campaigning and her efforts in countering Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements. He stated, "Priyanka ji is campaigning vigorously and is single-handedly silencing Narendra Modi’s lies. The way she responded to the canards that the PM was spreading on the abolition of estate duty in March 1985 was a stinging rebuke. That is why it was important that she should not be limited to just one constituency. She is campaigning across the country."



In response to Rahul Gandhi's candidature, PM Modi took a dig, suggesting that Rahul Gandhi is seeking another seat out of fear of defeat in Wayanad.

PM Modi said, "I had already told you that the prince is looking for another seat for himself due to fear of defeat in Wayanad. Now he had to run away from Amethi and choose the Rae Bareli seat."

"These people go around and tell everyone - Daro Mat! Don't be afraid! I would say the same thing to them - Daro mat! Bhago mat! don't be afraid! Do not run!" he added.

Congress, however, clarified that the Rae Bareli seat is not just an inheritance but a responsibility. Jairam Ramesh remarked, "Many people have many opinions on the news of Rahul Gandhi contesting elections from Rae Bareli. Remember, he is an experienced player of politics and chess. The party leadership takes its decisions after much discussion, and as part of a larger strategy. Rae Bareli has been the seat not only of Sonia ji but also of Indira Gandhi herself. It is not an inheritance; it is a responsibility and a duty."

The elections in Amethi and Rae Bareli are scheduled for May 20, marking the fifth phase of the seven-phase general election.