Rahul's persistence pays off, reluctant Sonia lets Priyanka enter active politics

New Delhi: It was Congress president Rahul Gandhi who insisted sister Priyanka should enter active politics. Though former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi initially disagreed, she finally gave in to his decision.

Priyanka's entry was confirmed after Rahul’s request to have his sister by his side in the crucial state of Uttar Pradesh was gladly accepted by her.

Priyanka, who inherited her grandmother and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's charisma, was actively involved in key decision-making in the party. She had played a pivotal role in breaking the deadlock over the selection of chief ministers for Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh recently.

Another mission for Priyanka who will be in-charge in UP will be to bring Varun Gandhi, who seems unhappy with the BJP, to the Congress fold.

Rahul had suggested to senior leaders that the party needed a better game plan in the state after SP and BSP joined hands. The matter was discussed in the core committee meeting held in New Delhi on January 13.

Rahul announced the decision after considering the core committee’s opinion – appoint Priyanka in a top post and send her to UP. Sonia initially opposed the idea, unhappy with the idea of having both her children in active politics.

Rahul said Priyanka’s presence will help the party much in a state where losing will have a huge impact in the crucial polls. It will be difficult to focus on all states alone. Priyanka can carry the big burden in UP, he insisted. Sonia finally agreed.

Going for Varun

Priyanka will also try to get Varun Gandhi, her cousin, to join the Congress, said party sources. His presence will boost party’s chances in UP. Though Varun's mother Maneka Gandhi is not in favour of it, Varun might consider switching allegiance, sources close to the latter said. Priyanka can play a big role in persuading him.

Scindia rises

Jyotiraditya Scindia was promised a senior post after he agreed to let Kamal Nath become chief minister in Madhya Pradesh. Rahul and Priyanka kept the promise by elevating the young leader to AICC general secretary.

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