- If there is any one Indian political leader who must have endured a plethora of criticism, ridicule, cynicism, and lampooning in the last few years, then it must be none other than the Scion of the Grand Old Party of India. Yes, I am referring to Rahul Gandhi who found himself in the firing line most often because of unwitting gaffes, lack of clarity in expressing thoughts on crucial issues, little preparedness, and a general sense of informality that often accompanied Rahul during his many interactions on different platforms. The Bharatiya Janata Party took advantage of such intermittent gaffes to belittle the leader no end. Of course, Rahul was always found to be assiduous and vicious in his attack on the BJP and in particular, Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
PC: HT News Desk
- Yes, Rahul has been steadfast in not only ridiculing the Prime Minister excessively but also known to conjure up unsubstantiated and not-so-subtle insinuations in his zeal to target the BJP’s tallest leader. We all know how the Rafale fighters from France were made an issue before the 2019 general elections despite the Supreme Court finding no loopholes in the purchase. Notably, Rahul’s vociferous proclamations about the Adani-Ambani linkage with Modi never took a backseat. He continues to remain steadfast in calling out the BJP’s nexus with the big business houses on every platform including while visiting overseas destinations. This continued aggression from the leader must have riled the BJP leadership to no end. It’s natural too.
- On its part, the BJP never shied away from targeting Rahul by calling names like Shehzada, the chosen, the prince, nepotism, dynast, and Pappu just to name a few. Did it stop Rahul from taking a step back amid cornering from several quarters? Not at all. It is here Rahul deserves credit for staying true to his belief and pressing ahead with not only the no-holds-barred innuendos against the BJP but also against Modi himself. Two Bharat Jodo Yatras undertaken by Rahul were ridiculed initially by all concerned including the Congress brass themselves. Especially the second Yatra was not fully supported by the Congress leadership is the general understanding. However, it did not deter Rahul from pressing ahead with his conviction. The results are there for all to see.
PC : NDTV
- He has matured over the last few years is quite visible. His apparent calmness, assured demeanor, easy charm of mixing with the people, and no airs about posing for pictures with the common citizens on the ground did help strike a chord with society in general. Even the media was appreciative of the way Rahul transformed his disposition, which immensely helped in gaining people’s attention. Some of the decisions made before the polls also showcase the smartness of Rahul in correctly gauging the ground realities. Little wonder that Congress has heaped rewards for reinventing itself to a certain extent. The Lok Sabha tally has grown from 62 to 99 with the promise of changes palpable. This is good for the Congress and Rahul himself.
