Rahul Gandhi vs Smriti Irani: Anticipating the 2024 Amethi Contest
The Amethi constituency, a historical bastion of the Gandhi family, saw a shift of power in the 2019 general election when BJP’s Smriti Irani dethroned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The recent statement by newly appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai has sparked discussions about the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha polls, suggesting that Rahul Gandhi will once again vie for Amethi. This prediction reignites interest in the high-profile constituency that has long been associated with the Gandhi-Nehru family.
Amethi, traditionally a Congress stronghold, has only witnessed defeats for the Gandhi-Nehru family twice, the first being post the Emergency when Sanjay Gandhi lost to Janata Party candidate Ravindra Pratap Singh.
Rahul Gandhi initially made his parliamentary debut from the Amethi constituency in 2004. He successfully secured victory in the subsequent two Lok Sabha elections before his loss to Smriti Irani of the BJP in 2019. Sonia Gandhi, representing Rae Bareli, remains the sole Congress parliamentarian from Uttar Pradesh currently. The party now aims to reclaim Amethi from Smriti Irani.
While Rahul Gandhi is currently serving as the MP from Wayanad in Kerala, Rai’s announcement has sparked speculation about his potential return to Amethi.
Rai’s announcement was met with enthusiasm by party workers and leaders who gathered at the airport to welcome him. He declared, “Rahul Gandhi will definitely contest the Lok Sabha election from Amethi, the people of Amethi are here.”
Addressing Smriti Irani’s previous victory over Rahul Gandhi, Rai suggested that Irani appears frustrated and questioned her promises. “Smriti Irani seems frustrated. She said she will get sugar at ₹13 per kg, did she manage it? People from Amethi are here, ask them,” Rai stated.
The Smriti Irani vs Rahul Gandhi battle has been a dynamic one. Smriti Irani’s active engagement in Amethi has bolstered BJP’s presence in the area. While BJP holds influence in certain assembly constituencies, the Samajwadi Party retains control over others. Irani’s supporters highlight developmental work under both central and state governments.
Rahul Gandhi’s visits to Amethi post his 2019 defeat, coupled with his potential return, have bolstered hopes among local party leaders. His visible involvement, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, resonates positively with party workers. The approaching Lok Sabha election in 2024 could witness an intensified political showdown in Amethi if Rahul Gandhi decides to reclaim his former seat.
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