Elections are nearly over. About 100 seats remain to be polled. Most people are engaged in intense discussions about who will win. The Netas themselves are taking time off from what has been a grueling campaign for all concerned. The dust is yet to settle on the firmament. Many scenes from the battle remain etched in our minds. Personalities from the elections have cast their spell on us.
Congress is nearly done with this poll. It will take some time for it to sit down and ponder over the outcome. What are the abiding images from the run up to the polls?
There are many, but people have taken notice of Priyanka Gandhi, who once again has made an appearance in the public eye after five years of UPA - II. Her impact has been swift and sharp, as if she was waiting to strike. Her barbs at Narendra Modi have hit home. And her defense of her husband Robert Vadra has been resolute without giving anything much away. Her attacks have left the opposition in disarray and they are scrambling for cover.
This brings us to the point, is Priyanka a better bet than Rahul? Many would agree. She speaks to the point, has presence and can stand up to the opposition. All these are musts in a winnable leader. In contrast, Rahul appears reluctant, speaks little and is stiff among people. He also is not able to make a point across, something Priyanka effortlessly does. So, why is she not leading the Congress, many might ask.
Moreover, people don't seem to have taken fancy to Rahul Gandhi. If Congress loses, a big part of the blame must rest on the decision to persist with him.
The Congress campaign has received a shot in the arm with her appearance. Whether this will translate into votes is another point. Sonia too is going all out in the states where the dice is still undecided. She can have a substantial impact in South namely AP and Karnataka. But, Congress is a waning force. 2004 was different. Today it stands badly exposed and bereft of ideas, and a winning formula. Also, it is up against Modi, who has completely taken over the election.
It must be argued, Priyanka is potentially a better investment for the future. She has a political instinct, glaringly missing in Rahul. Many see shades of Indira Gandhi in her. Though she has yet to enter politics, she has shown great promise, but she will have to prove herself in politics to make her mark. Congress appears to be on a downhill path, and it needs a strong leader who can arrest the slide and provide direction. Its image has taken a battering, and needs to rid itself of its shady politicians who have done it enormous damage.
The future will tell who can lead the Congress out of the depths. Will Rahul rise to the occasion, which would be a surprise, or will Congress, give Priyanka a chance? Let’s wait and see!
No comments:
Post a Comment