Sonia Gandhi Sworn in as Rajya Sabha Member from Rajasthan: Sonia Gandhi, a key figure in the Congress party, has officially become a member of the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. This marks her first time holding this position in the Upper House of Parliament. The seat she now occupies was previously held by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh until April 3.
Gandhi's decision to take up this role comes just ahead of the looming Lok Sabha elections, which are scheduled to be held in seven phases. While some cite her "poor health" as the reason behind seeking a Rajya Sabha seat, there's also speculation about the Congress party's electoral challenges in Rae Bareli. This seat, previously held by Gandhi, is now being eyed by the BJP, especially after their victory in nearby Amethi, Rahul Gandhi's former constituency, in the last election. It's worth noting that Rae Bareli is the only Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh that Congress secured in the previous polls.
This move by Sonia Gandhi is significant as it marks the first time in fifty years that a member of the Nehru-Gandhi family has opted for a Rajya Sabha route to Parliament. The last instance of this was observed with Indira Gandhi briefly in 1964, before she transitioned to contesting in the Lok Sabha elections.
Congress Leader Gourav Vallabh Resigns, Citing Party's Directionless Approach
Lok Sabha Elections: Rahul Gandhi Set to File Nomination Today in Wayanad