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Business News›Magazines›Panache›Panache People 101›Sonia Gandhi
    Sonia Gandhi

    Sonia Gandhi

    MP, Lok Sabha
    Birth DetailsDecember 09, 1946 | Lusiana, Veneto region, Italy
    NationalityIndian
    LeaguePolitician
    EducationCertificate course in English language from Cambridge, UK
    Sonia Gandhi’s Journey so far ...
    • Despite being a part of the Nehru-Gandhi family, Sonia Gandhi maintained her distance from politics for a long time
    • Gandhi established the eponymous NGO Rajiv Gandhi Foundation after the assassination of her husband in 1991
    • She became a member of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1997
    • In April 1998, she was elected as the president of the Congress party
    • Gandhi won the Lok Sabha elections from Amethi (Uttar Pradesh) in 1999 and, subsequently, became the leader of the Opposition in the Lower House
    • In September 2001, the Supreme Court ruled that Sonia Gandhi was an Indian citizen, by virtue of the certificate granted to her under Section 5(1)(c) of the Citizenship Act. It also upheld her election to the Lok Sabha from Amethi in 1999
    • In 2004, she was elected as the Member of Parliament from Rae Bareli and owing to her campaigning efforts, Congress also won the highest number of seats in the general elections that year. Congress, along with other parties, created the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and formed a coalition government at the Centre. Despite being the president of the party, Gandhi declined the post of prime ministership and Manmohan Singh was sworn-in as the PM
    • After the UPA government was formed, she became the chairperson of the coalition as well as the National Advisory Council
    • Following a controversy, she resigned from her posts in the Lok Sabha and NAC but was re-elected soon after
    • She was re-elected to the Lok Sabha from the Rae Bareli constituency in 2009. The UPA also formed government at the Centre for a second consecutive term that year
    • Gandhi won the Lok Sabha elections again in 2014
    • She stepped down as the leader of the Congress in 2017 and was succeeded by her son Rahul Gandhi
    • Gandhi returned as the interim president of the party in 2019 after her son resigned
    • During the UPA regime of 2004-2014, she provided a steady hand to keep the coalition together, steering sensitivities of UPA partners from Tamil Nadu to West Bengal
    • She struck compromises like caste census to win friends for the government and forced the party to play second fiddle to allies on testy grounds like Bengal, but was also smart to get rid of RJD and SP to let the party attempt revival in UP and Bihar
    • She guided the Manmohan Singh government in crafting three most important policies: a flagship rural jobs scheme (MNREGA), a loan waiver for farmers and the Right to Information Act
    • Gandhi’s uninterrupted 19-year stint at the helm of the grand old party of India is a record. The period also saw the party face the worst electoral drubbings too: 114 seats in 1999 and 44 seats in 2014
    • She reinforced her position in the Congress by travelling widely across India to mobilise the party, acquiring the “Soniamma” image among women and poor

    Before you go ...
    • Sonia Gandhi was raised in a traditional Roman Catholic household near Turin in Italy
    • Her husband Rajiv Gandhi served as the Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989 and was assassinated in 1991. Her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi has also been the PM of India and was the first woman to hold the post. Her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi are members of the Congress and are active in politics
    • She took lessons in Hindi before venturing into Parliament
    • Gandhi is the author of the books Rajiv's World, Two Alone, Two Together, Indira Gandhi: Selected Sayings, etc.
    • Forbes magazine ranked her as the third most powerful woman in 2007. She featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people list in 2007 and 2008
    • She played a pivotal role on October 2 being declared as the International Day of Non-Violence by the UN
    • For her inscrutable image, she has also been called the “Sphinx” of Indian politics

    Last Updated: 28/09/2021

    Sonia Gandhi News

    • Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi. Earlier, Soren also had meetings with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's wife and AAP MP Sanjay Singh, as well as Congress leader Sonia Gandhi. Soren recently won a floor test in the State Assembly after being sworn in for the third time following legal issues.
    • Congress leader KC Venugopal announced on Sunday that Gaurav Gogoi has been appointed as the deputy leader in the Lok Sabha. Venugopal shared the update on X, formerly known as Twitter.
    • NCW chief Rekha Sharma visited Hathras to meet the women injured in the tragic stampede that claimed 121 lives. Videos surfaced showing Sharma at the site with someone holding an umbrella for her. Reacting to one such post, Mahua Moitra tweeted, "She’s too busy holding up her boss's pajamas," targeting Sharma, who is often accused of working in favour of the BJP-led NDA government. Rekha Sharma responded to Moitra's remarks by calling her a "troll." "She is not interested in her work but just trolling people, and I don't give my time to trollers," Sharma said.
    • Mukesh Ambani met Sonia Gandhi at 10 Janpath, inviting her to Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's July 12 wedding. The Ambani family began wedding celebrations with a philanthropic 'Samuh Vivah', a mass wedding for 50 underprivileged Palghar couples at Reliance Corporate Park, attended by 800 guests. Nita Ambani emphasized traditional fervour and service to humanity.
    • Union ministers criticized Rahul Gandhi for delivering an irresponsible speech in Lok Sabha, making untruthful claims about various topics. The BJP highlighted the contrast with past leaders like Vajpayee, Advani, and Swaraj, emphasizing the importance of responsibility in such positions.
    • Sonia Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response to the recent Lok Sabha election results in a newspaper article on Saturday. She described Modi's behavior as ignoring the personal and political setback indicated by the electorate's verdict. Gandhi highlighted the opposition's request for a deputy speaker from their ranks, which was denied by the government, and she accused Modi of promoting confrontation despite preaching consensus.
    • Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of not reflecting on the message sent by voters in the recent parliamentary elections. Kharge highlighted an editorial by Congress leader Sonia Gandhi in a leading English daily on Saturday.
    • Gandhi was appointed leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, after a meeting of the floor leaders of Opposition pirates at Kharge’s home in Delhi. The Congress is currently the largest opposition party, winning 99 seats out of 543. The party’s INDI-alliance won 234 seats, narrowly losing to the NDA, which won 293 seats.
    • Independent MP Pappu Yadav stated on Tuesday that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is an "internationally recognised" leader after Gandhi was elected as the Leader of the Opposition. Congress announced on Tuesday that Rahul Gandhi, the party's MP from Rae Bareli, will serve as the Leader of the Opposition in the 18th Lok Sabha.
    • Although the BJP leaders remained tight-lipped about their nominee for the post, there are speculations that Om Birla, the speaker in the 17th Lok Sabha, could also be in the race again. However, Bhartruhari Mahtab, the current pro-term speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha, is also being seen as a contender for the post.
    • Congress members are expressing hope about Rahul Gandhi acquitting to the Congress Working Committee's resolution to be the Leader of the Opposition in the new Lok Sabha. Gandhi was persuaded by Lower House colleagues to occupy a front row seat, which was allotted to the then Congress floor leader Adhir Chowdhury in the previous Lok Sabha. He has demonstrated his privilege by keeping the resolution of the Congress Working Committee pending since June 8.
    • HAM leader and MSME minister Jitan Ram Manjhi made a mistake while taking an oath as Lok Sabha member, leading to confusion among ministers. Jharkhand political circles are buzzing about Cabinet inductions, with Congress almost finalizing the name for Alamgir Alam. Rumors suggest Kalpana, jailed former chief minister Hemant Soren's wife, may be inducted. AICC leaders held a demonstration in New Delhi to protect the Constitution, while the BJP is preparing for demonstrations in Karnataka.
    • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized PM Modi's government, listing ten issues from the first fifteen days of its term, including a train accident, NEET and UGC NET exam irregularities, rising costs, and a water crisis. He accused Modi of focusing on political survival over public accountability and vowed continued opposition pressure.
    • President Droupadi Murmu will address a joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on June 27, outlining the new government's roadmap for the next five years. The session will conclude on July 3.
    • As the rules allow an MP to represent only one seat in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi had to announce his pick and tender resignation from the other seat by Tuesday. Party chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi also hinted at the latter being open to becoming Lok Sabha's leader of the Opposition, as recently requested by the Congress Working Committee (CWC).
    • Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi credits Rahul Gandhi for Congress revival, highlighting his leadership in setting the narrative for the Lok Sabha polls. Gogoi recalls Sonia Gandhi's 'we will overcome' message at a party conclave in May 2022. He praises Gandhi's moral, philosophical, and organizational leadership, emphasizing the party's progress since then.
    • Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi criticized Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi for seeking a third term as PM, claiming he lost the mandate he sought. She emphasized the CPP's role in holding the government accountable and called for proper parliamentary process. PM Modi will be sworn in today.
    • Congress President and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge was called by BJP leader Pralhad Joshi late last night to invite him to the swearing-in ceremony of PM-designate Narendra Modi, sources informed.
    • The Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) re-elected Sonia Gandhi as chairperson, allowing her to nominate opposition leaders in the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. Gandhi emphasised the need to enhance the party's state presence, attributing their electoral recovery to President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. The decision was unanimously supported by party members and endorsed by senior MPs, maintaining Gandhi in the role at the request of party leaders.
    • Former Congress chairman Sonia Gandhi has been unanimously elected as the chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge proposed Gandhi's name for the post during a party meeting, with leaders like Gaurav Gogoi, Tariq Anwar, and K Sudhakaran seconding the proposal. The Congress increased its seat total to 100 from 52 in the 2019 Lok Sabha poll, making it the second-largest party in the recent elections.
    • Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized that the Lok Sabha election outcome signifies a rejection of divisive politics and underscored the importance of unity within the INDIA bloc, both inside and outside Parliament. While acknowledging the party's revival, Kharge also highlighted areas where the Congress fell short of expectations and proposed discussions to address these issues. He credited the Bharat Jodo Yatra for boosting Congress's vote share and seats in several states, particularly in Maharashtra. Kharge praised the solidarity within the INDIA bloc and stressed the continuation of cohesive action.
    • Congress to discuss Lok Sabha poll result in a meeting chaired by Mallikarjun Kharge on June 8 at the Congress headquarters. Leaders like Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to participate. Congress emerged as the second largest party.
    • The BJP has been in a difficult position in the 18th Lok Sabha, failing to cross the halfway mark of 272 votes. The party's dismal performance is attributed to several factors, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity, mistakes in candidate selection across states, and the growing perception among Dalits that the BJP will re-write the constitution if it achieves a "400 par" target. Apathy among the BJP's ranks and the induction of leaders from other parties at the rate of almost one per day in the last few weeks further fueled their anger.
    • Modi said at the meeting that it was a historic mandate for the NDA's third consecutive government which, he noted, was last received in the country over 60 years back. His allies lauded Modi for his clear vision for "Viksit Bharat" and asserted that they are partners in this goal. They also praised him for enhancing India's pride in the world, besides his efforts towards poverty eradication and pledged to continue the good work, the sources said.
    • Congress MP Kishori Lal Sharma, who recently defeated BJP's Smriti Irani in the Amethi Lok Sabha seat, met with Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi in Delhi. The Gandhis advised him to remain humble and respectful, emphasizing that being an MP should not lead to arrogance. Sharma, known for his loyalty to the Gandhi family, expressed gratitude for their guidance.
    • In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Uttar Pradesh became a political thriller with Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav challenging the BJP, resulting in a reduced seat share for the ruling party. Priyanka Gandhi's intense campaign played a crucial role in Congress's victories in Amethi and Rae Bareli. Her direct and personal approach resonated with voters, particularly women. She also successfully brokered a seat-sharing deal between Congress and the Samajwadi Party. This election marked a significant turnaround for Congress in Uttar Pradesh.
    • Rahul Gandhi won the Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh by a margin of 3,90,030 votes, surpassing Sonia Gandhi's 2019 victory margin.
    • Sonia Gandhi, the influential leader of the Congress Party, played a key role in forming the opposition INDIA bloc. Despite her silence, she wielded significant power and strategically led the party during the elections.
    • Opposition leaders reject exit poll projections, confident in INDIA bloc's majority win ahead of vote counting.
    • Rae Bareli recognised as one of the 80 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, Rae Bareli has been a bastion of the Indian National Congress. From 1967 to 1977, the seat was held by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and from 2004 until her appointment to the Rajya Sabha in 2024, by Sonia Gandhi.
    • Congress leader Sonia Gandhi expressed her party's hope that the results of the Lok Sabha elections will be different from the exit polls. She said that they have to wait and see, and that they are hopeful that their results will be different from the exit polls. Most exit polls predict Prime Minister Narendra Modi will retain power for a third term, with the BJP-led NDA expected to win a majority. Congress and other INDIA bloc parties have dismissed the exit polls, claiming they were a "fantasy" and that the opposition alliance will form the next government.
    • Revanth Reddy acknowledged the contributions of Meira Kumar, Sushma Swaraj, and others in the passage of the Telangana bill in Lok Sabha. He emphasized the significance of their roles in the state's history.
    • The former Congress president, who began her speech by paying homage to those who sacrificed their lives for the cause of statehood to Telangana, recalled that she had promised at Karimnagar in the state in 2004 that the grand old party would fulfil the people's demand for a separate state.
    • Congress leaders paid tributes to former PM Jawaharlal Nehru on his 60th death anniversary at his memorial in New Delhi. Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and others honored the architect of modern India at Shanti Van.
    • The Congress paid tribute to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his death anniversary. The Grand Old Party highlighted his role as the architect of modern India and a dedicated guardian of democracy. Party leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi honored Nehru's contributions to the country's progress, unity, and values.
    • The sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls includes eight seats in Bihar, all 10 seats in Haryana, one seat in Jammu and Kashmir, four in Jharkhand, all seven seats in Delhi, six in Odisha, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, and eight in West Bengal. A total of 889 candidates are in the fray.
    • Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, 91, cast his vote through postal ballot in Delhi for the Lok Sabha elections. He voted at his residence due to ill health.
    • Among the key contestants are Dharmendra Pradhan (BJP) from Sambalpur (Odisha), Manoj Tiwari (BJP) and Kanhaiya Kumar (Congress) from North East Delhi, Maneka Gandhi (BJP) from Sultanpur (Uttar Pradesh), Mehbooba Mufti (PDP) from Anantnag-Rajouri (Jammu & Kashmir), Abhijit Gangopadhyay (BJP) from Tamluk (West Bengal), and BJP's Manohar Lal Khattar (Karnal, Haryana), Naveen Jindal (Kurukshetra) and Rao Inderjit Singh (Gurgaon).
    • Former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi emphasized the significance of Delhi's upcoming elections to safeguard democracy and the Constitution. She urged people to support INDIA bloc candidates on all seven seats, highlighting key issues like unemployment and inflation in the current Lok Sabha election campaign.
    • ​​ Kishan Reddy sought to know from the Congress government how it could invite a political leader for a government function. "...she is a leader of the Congress party. How can you invite her to a government function? If you want to invite her, then invite and felicitate her at the Congress party's office. We don't have any objection to that," he said.
    • Former CM Chouhan further targeted Kejriwal over being silent on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal assault case stating that "chup-chup baithe ho jarur koi baat hai, ghotale ki chaabhi kya Bibhav (PA of CM Kejriwal) ke pass hai?"
    • Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has criticised Congress leaders for spreading false information about the NDA's intention to change the constitution. She criticized Congress leaders for failing to protect the constitution of their party and promoting one family. Sitharaman also accused Congress and the RJD of attempting to "rob" SCs, STs, and OBCs of quotas and divert them to Muslims, which is against the Constitution.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Congress leaders, paid tribute to Rajiv Gandhi at Veer Bhumi on his 33rd death anniversary, commemorating the former Prime Minister who was assassinated by LTTE in Tamil Nadu.
    • Rahul Gandhi commemorates his father Rajiv Gandhi on his 33rd death anniversary, sharing a heartfelt post and a childhood photograph. He, along with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, P Chidambaram, and Sachin Pilot, pays homage to Rajiv Gandhi at Veer Bhumi in Delhi.
    • Approximately 58% voter turnout recorded in Uttar Pradesh during the fifth phase of Lok Sabha elections, with detailed polling information and candidate updates.
    • Amit Shah criticised the Congress for not revoking Article 370 due to appeasement politics, emphasising that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir belongs to India. He accused top Congress leaders of neglecting the Ram temple issue to cater to minority vote banks. Shah highlighted PM Modi's decision to scrap Article 370.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress and its ally Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), claiming they lack knowledge about development and aim to steal public wealth. At a rally in Jamshedpur, he accused them of spreading lies, stealing assets under the guise of wealth redistribution, and undermining reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs. Modi also highlighted a cash recovery linked to a Congress leader as evidence of corruption.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a BJP rally in North-East Delhi, highlighting the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and accusing protesters of blocking roads and inciting riots. He criticized the INDI Alliance for allegedly promoting appeasement politics and corruption. Modi also targeted the AAP government in Delhi, accusing its leaders of corruption. He further criticized Congress, accusing it of acting as Pakistan's spokesperson and promoting "vote jihad." Modi assured that India will not be intimidated by Pakistan's atom bomb and emphasized his government's strong stance against Pakistan.
    • The Gandhi family's influence is a significant factor in the Lok Sabha elections in Rae Bareli, India. Congress has lost Rae Bareli three times since Independence, losing it to the BJP in the 2019 polls. Sonia Gandhi has represented the constituency for four consecutive terms since 2004 and has now passed on the baton to her son Rahul Gandhi. Rahul Gandhi is up against Dinesh Pratap Singh, who lost to Sonia Gandhi in the 2019 polls.
    • Rahul Gandhi stresses Rae Bareli's role in India's progress and recalls childhood memories with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the Lok Sabha seat vacated by Sonia Gandhi during the freedom struggle in Uttar Pradesh.
    • The Amethi Lok Sabha constituency is witnessing a closely contested election, with a mix of factors shaping the narrative. Despite initial expectations of a walkover for BJP's Smriti Irani in the absence of a Gandhi family member in the fray, Congress' Kishori Lal Sharma is gaining ground, aided by Priyanka Gandhi's vigorous campaigning. Irani's efforts to establish her legacy in Amethi and the Modi factor are key elements, along with central welfare schemes and law and order under Yogi Adityanath's government. The contest also reflects complexities within voter demographics, with different communities expressing varied sentiments.
    • Sonia Gandhi made an emotional appeal to Rae Bareli voters, entrusting her son Rahul Gandhi with their support as she steps back due to health reasons. This decision underscores the Gandhi family's historical connection with the constituency and marks a strategic move for the Congress party. Rahul promises equal development for Rae Bareli and Amethi, highlighting the party's efforts to strengthen its presence in North India.
    • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has pledged to treat Amethi and Rae Bareli equally in development if he wins the Lok Sabha poll from Rae Bareli. He pledged Rs 8,500 for each youth per month if the party wins power. He also announced the removal of the Agniveer scheme for armed forces recruitment and the return of the permanent appointment system with pension provision.
    • Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar announced that the INDIA alliance will win around 300 parliamentary seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, while the NDA will manage around 200 seats. He criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for failing to deliver on promises, such as black money, farmers' income, and unemployment. Shivakumar praised the Congress party's efforts in implementing the 5 guarantees on the first day in Karnataka, highlighting the support for the party in India.
    • In the family pocket borough of Rae Bareli, Sonia Gandhi has stepped aside for son Rahul. His challenger is a former Congress loyalist who is now a minister in the Yogi govt
    • Priyanka Gandhi emphasised that a share of government jobs will strengthen women's power. "The Centre's contribution to the honorarium of the Asha, Anganwadi and Cook sisters will be doubled. An insurance scheme of Rs 25 lakh will take you out of the quagmire of medical expenses. The situation will change," she assured.
    • According to the Delhi police, Maliwal on Monday went to the Civil Lines Police Station and alleged that a member of Kejriwal's personal staff "assaulted' her at the chief minister's official residence. Police have not yet received a formal complaint.
    • In his address here on Sunday, Union minister Amit Shah said if the essence of "400 paar" could be met with one seat, it was Raebareli. The remark underscores the perceptional value this seat carries in BJP's mission to trounce Congress, with Amethi already being vacated for a family 'representative' instead of a member.
    • Rahul Gandhi pledges to enhance Amethi and Rae Bareli with manufacturing and food processing units, emphasizing the continuity of family's development legacy and commitment to serve the constituencies with historical significance.
    • Sonia Gandhi promises women welfare schemes like the 'Mahalakshmi' guarantee in an election appeal. She highlights women's historical role, the Congress' initiatives, and the fight against inflation.
    • Rahul Gandhi, addressing his first election meeting in Rae Bareli after his nomination, emphasized his family's longstanding commitment to the constituency, contrasting it with what he perceives as Prime Minister Modi's favoritism towards corporate giants. He criticized the Modi government for allegedly favoring industrialists over common citizens, claiming massive loan waivers for a select few. Rahul highlighted the contributions of his grandmother Indira Gandhi, father Rajiv Gandhi, and mother Sonia Gandhi in improving the lives of Rae Bareli's residents.
    • Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has announced a financial assistance scheme called 'Mahalakshmi,' offering Rs 1 lakh annually to women from poor households. This announcement comes during the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, Jairam Ramesh criticized Prime Minister Modi for not responding to Rahul Gandhi's invitation for a debate. The Lok Sabha polls are ongoing in 96 constituencies across nine states and one Union Territory, with significant contests in various constituencies.
    • Raebareli will vote in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 20. Shah also addressed an election rally in Pratapgarh where he said that Rahul Gandhi can be scared of Pakistan's "atom bomb" but the BJP is not, and that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir belongs to India and "we will take it". He was referring to Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar's remarks on Pakistan having the atom bomb.
    • Once upon a time, Khammam used to be just another Lok Sabha seat. Then at one point, one after another, all of the Gandhis got invitations to fight from there. This suddenly elevated the seat's stature substantially, with local leaders making a dash for tickets from there.
    • Parting ways with former Indian Overseas Congress chairperson, Sam Pitroda's 'racist' remarks, businessman and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's husband, Robert Vadra, on Thursday termed Pitroda's remark as "Bakwas" and said that he completely disagreed with what the latter said.
    • Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticised the Congress manifesto likening it to the Muslim League, calling it unjust towards marginalised communities and promoting divisive politics. He accused Congress of historical divide and rule tactics, undermining OBC reservation, and encroaching on SC-ST rights. Adityanath warned of potential class conflicts and expressed confidence in public resistance.
    • As part of the poll campaign, Priyanka Gandhi is scheduled to attend meetings at Thulwasa, Maharajganj, Halor, Bhawanigarh, Goodha, Tilenda, Inchauli and Sudauli --all in Bachhrawan assembly constituency of Rae Bareli. In 2019, former Congress president Sonia Gandhi had won from the seat. The BJP has fielded its minister Dinesh Pratap Singh from the seat.
    • Congress candidate Kishori Lal Sharma, a loyal 'sevak' of the Gandhi family, vows to return Amethi to them. He criticizes the BJP for neglecting Amethi's development and emphasizes the importance of protecting democracy and the Constitution.
    • Sonia Gandhi urges voters during India's 18th Lok Sabha polls to reject lies, emphasizing unity, democracy defense, and addressing youth unemployment, crimes, Dalit, Adivasis, minorities discrimination, while promoting Nyay Patra for the disadvantaged communities.
    • In a veiled reference to former Congress leader Pramod Krishnam's remarks, Irani said, "A leader who was associated with Congress for 32 years, has said that if Rahul Gandhi gets power, he will overturn the Supreme Court ruling on Ram Mandir and again facilitate a mosque there....it is my appeal to people to become the Hanuman of Democracy and ignite a fire in Congress' 'Lanka'."
    • Rae Bareli lok Sabha Elections: The Congress appointed former chief ministers Bhupesh Baghel and Ashok Gehlot as AICC senior observers for Rae Bareli and Amethi Parliamentary constituencies, respectively. Rahul Gandhi is set to contest from Rae Bareli, while Kishori Lal Sharma, a close aide of the Gandhi family, will fight from Amethi. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will lead the campaign in both constituencies, camping there from Monday until the end of polls, holding numerous meetings and door-to-door campaigns.
    • BJP's Ajay Alok criticizes ex-Punjab CM Channi for remarks on Poonch attack. Alok blames Congress for 'culture' of petty politics. Indian Air Force personnel killed. BJP leader Rinku demands apology. Union Minister Thakur condemns Congress. Security heightened in Poonch.
    • Congress' Amethi candidate KL Sharma has defended himself as a seasoned politician and not a servant of the Gandhi family, stating that he will defeat Union Minister Smriti Irani in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Sharma criticized the BJP's increased vote share in Amethi and Raebareli in the 2019 elections, claiming it was a pass muster to distract public attention from the real issues. He criticized the BJP's weaponization of the media against the Opposition and the lack of fulfillment of its promises in the 2014 polls.
    • UBT Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut criticized BJP's Smriti Irani, expressing "pity" for her facing Rahul Gandhi's personal assistant in Amethi. Raut defended Congress' choice, KL Sharma, as a loyal worker. He argued that previous close associates of the Gandhi family have contested from Amethi and praised Sharma as a grassroots worker. Raut also emphasized the importance of high voter turnout and distanced Shiv Sena from recent political joinings.
    • In another veiled dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Russian chess legend Garry Kasparov, who is known as much for his smart moves on the chessboard as he is for witty remarks and political commentary, said he could not "fail to see a politician dabbling in my beloved game!".
    • Amit Shah predicts Rahul Gandhi's defeat in Rae Bareli, criticizes Congress for mishandling security and development in Karnataka, urging support for the Modi government to address state issues.
    • Amit Shah said former AICC President Sonia Gandhi's multiple attempts to "launch" Rahul Gandhi had failed and claimed that this was the twenty-first attempt. The top BJP leader addressed a public meeting here in Belagavi district for party candidate from Chikkodi Lok Sabha segment Annasaheb Jolle.
    • Rahul Gandhi's surprise decision to contest from Rae Bareli instead of Amethi has stirred speculation. With Priyanka Gandhi Vadra abstaining from the race, the move signals a strategic shift for Congress. The choice reflects concerns over Amethi's electoral dynamics post-2019 and aims to reinforce the party's presence in northern India. Yet, it may impact Congress's prospects in Kerala, posing a strategic dilemma.
    • Irani recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about "Congress waiting for elections to conclude in Kerala" so that a safe seat could be announced for Rahul Gandhi later.
    • Kishori Lal Sharma, a long-time associate of the Gandhi family, will be contesting from Amethi against BJP's Smriti Irani, while Rahul Gandhi will be contesting from Raebareli.
    • Amethi Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Congress candidate Kishori Lal Sharma has defeated Smriti Irani by a margin of over 1.5 lakh votes. Sharma, a long-time associate of the Gandhi family, has been instrumental in managing the party's affairs in both constituencies Amethi and Raebareli that have been traditional strongholds of the Gandhi family
    • The Congress has not yet put out any official statement on its choice of nominees from Amethi and Raebareli, which were considered the party's strongholds until the 2019 elections.
    • Rahul Gandhi is likely to contest from Rae Bareli, the constituency held by his mother Sonia Gandhi who has become a member of the Rajya Sabha, reported PTI, citing sources. The BJP on Thursday announced Dinesh Pratap Singh as its candidate from Rae Bareli. He had lost to Sonia Gandhi in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.
    • The purported video showed Chowdhury, the sitting MP and candidate from Baharampur, addressing a public meeting and saying "it's better to vote for the BJP than to vote for the TMC." Banerjee expressed disbelief that a Congressman would advocate for the saffron party, stating that Chowdhury's actions were aiding the BJP's cause.
    • AICC chief Kharge criticizes Modi, urges unity to save democracy. Accuses Modi of inciting fights, making false promises, using religion for votes. Questions Modi's intentions and treatment of Congress leaders. Kharge emphasizes unity to protect Constitution.
    • The state leadership in Uttar Pradesh has already urged the central election committee and the party leadership to field Rahul Gandhi from Amethi and Priyanka from Rae Bareli. The CEC members had also supported the view of the Uttar Pradesh Congress during the last meeting of the CEC on Saturday.
    • Congress party lists star campaigners for Andhra Pradesh polls, including top leaders like Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge. The party is facing challenges in gaining support ahead of the elections.
    • The Bahujan Samaj Party on Thursday announced its fresh list of three Lok Sabha poll candidates for Uttar Pradesh, fielding Thakur Prasad Yadav from Rae Bareli seat. The ruling BJP and the Congress are yet to declare their nominees from Rae Bareli represented by Sonia Gandhi in the outgoing Lok Sabha. The constituency will go to polls in the fifth phase of the ongoing general elections on May 20.
    • Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi are reportedly considering contesting Lok Sabha elections from Rae Bareli and Amethi seats, respectively, sources informed ANI. Final decisions are expected post-April 26, with nominations possibly filed next week. Wayanad, Rahul's current constituency, is set for Phase 2 elections. BJP's Smriti Irani, who defeated Rahul in 2019, is again contesting from Amethi. Rae Bareli and Amethi will vote in the fifth phase on May 20.
    • The Congress leader was replying to the BJP’s comments about the grand old party [figuratively] taking people’s gold and ripping off women’s mangalsutra, speaking in a rally in South Bengaluru at the same time Union Home Minister Amit Shah was holding a roadshow in the same constituency.
    • The electoral battle in Thiruvananthapuram between Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar of the BJP is intensifying. Tharoor, aiming for a fourth term, faces the challenge of retaining his appeal after 15 years, while Chandrasekhar seeks to capitalize on the BJP's growing influence.
    • Top Congress leaders convened to deliberate on the party's Lok Sabha candidates in Punjab and Bihar. Led by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, the meeting included former chief Sonia Gandhi, along with senior leaders Salman Khurshid and Ambika Soni. Discussions centered on potential candidates for both states, with the final decision left to the Congress president.
    • In an exclusive interview with ANI, Kumaraswamy, who is contesting for the Mandya Lok Sabha constituency said that the Karnataka CM has no control over his cabinet.
    • In an interview with Asianet News Network, PM Modi took a dig at Rahul Gandhi over the delay and indecision on Amethi seat, considered a stronghold of Congress family, which the Congress leader lost to union minister Smriti Irin the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Rahul Gandhi had contested from two Lok Sabha seats in 2019.
    • Amit Shah asserted that it is the Modi Guarantee that if he will become PM for the third time, they will make India the third largest economy in the world. Addressing a public meeting here today, Amit Shah exuded confidence in winning all the 25 seats in Rajasthan. "Rajasthan is going to give all 25 seats to Modi ji for the third time by doing a hat-trick. This election is clearly divided into two camps. On one side there is Congress which committed Rs 12 lakh crore scam and on the other side there is Narendra Modi, on whom nobody can put allegations of even 25 paisa. On one side there is Rahul baba and his sister who take vacation abroad every three months and on the other side there is Narendra Modi who does not take leave even on Diwali," he said.
    • Amethi Lok Sabha Election 2024: Rahul Gandhi expresses willingness to abide by Congress' decision on contesting Amethi seat, amid speculation. He lost the seat in 2019 to Smriti Irani and has filed nomination from Wayanad. Priyanka Gandhi's husband Robert Vadra hints at political entry. PM Modi and Irani criticize Gandhi family's alleged neglect of Amethi's development.
    • Amit Shah, while addressing an election rally in Jammu Lok Sabha constituency to campaign for BJP candidate Jugal Kishore, said that the regional parties are propagating the perception that BJP is out to occupy Kashmir, which is not correct. He added that assembly elections in J&K would be held within the Supreme Court deadline of September this year.
    • She said after 10 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi rule at the Centre and false promises, his speeches sound hollow to her. "The talks about amendment in the Constitution is being raised by the BJP because they want to snatch the people's rights. And they want to do it in a manner that you don't even realise that it is happening," Gandhi said.
    • While BJP's dominance in direct contests with Congress has been evident, the party faced tougher competition from non-Congress parties, especially in 2019. Despite this, BJP's steady rise in vote share and success in direct contests can largely be attributed to the changing political landscape, where Congress' influence has waned, benefiting the saffron party.
    • Amit Shah pledges BJP's commitment to reservations, criticizes Congress for spreading lies. Urges public support for Modi's third term to tackle Naxalism in Chhattisgarh. Shah highlights scams by Congress, emphasizing the importance of voting on April 26.
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