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By making Priyanka Gandhi the party general secretary of eastern UP, Rahul Gandhi has played a big political gamble ahead of the 2019 general elections. There have been numerous debates about Priyanka Gandhi's entry into active politics. Is she Congress’ ‘trump card’? What is the ground reality?
The Quint’s Chaupal reaches Benaras Hindu University (BHU) to ask the students if Gandhi's entry will change the political scene in the state.
Will This Move Help Congress?
While some students dismissed Priyanka Gandhi’s entry and said it wouldn’t have any impact, others were more hopeful and cited her previous work and connect with people in Raebareli.
“The BJP lost the last three states where they contested the elections. After that, with the reservation and Hindutva agendas on the table, they are playing their own game. In UP, parties are forming an alliance where Congress has been left out. So, Congress is bringing Priyanka Gandhi to achieve an emotional connect – a connection that a woman can provide. For instance, when Indira Gandhi was in power, she would meet people directly via roadshows. Even PM Modi knows how to establish such a direct and personal connection. This surely has an impact.”Student, BHU
‘She Has a Different, Calm Personality’
“So far, her duty was limited to Amethi and Raebareli. For years, the image that was built within the Congress and the common people was that she resembles her grandmother. So keeping that image in mind, she wasn’t introduced to active politics. She was used to only campaign in Rajiv Gandhi’s constituencies. Under Rahul’s leadership, she used to campaign in only two places. Now, her formal launch is a wonderful thing that will hopefully bring in some change. And the people of Amethi and Raibareli say that her calm personality enables her to easily connect with the people, especially the youth. She has a different personality.”Student, BHU
‘Never Done Anything Impactful’
“Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s entry into Indian politics will have no impact. Because, neither does Priyanka have any political experience, nor have people seen her demonstrate any political skill. Also, she has never done anything that is impactful.”Student, BHU
“Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is the Congress’ last hope since they have run out of options. After the SP-BSP alliance, in order to save their spot in Uttar Pradesh, especially with Rahul and Sonia not looking strong enough, they have played their masterstroke by bringing in Priyanka Gandhi. So that there is an emotional connection and it will also change people’s perspective. And those who are dissatisfied with the Congress will feel Priyanka will be able to make a difference.”Student, BHU
(This article was first published on The Quint Hindi.)
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