Congress Leaders Reflect on Sonia Gandhis Decision to Decline Prime Ministership in 2004
Congress leaders share memories of Sonia Gandhis decision to decline the PM position in 2004, highlighting emotional responses and reflections.
New Delhi, November 10 (Daily Kiran) : Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi‘s recent book, “Belonging: A Journey of Love,” has sparked political discussions and reflections among party members. In the book, Gandhi mentions her decision to decline the prime ministership in 2004, a moment that left many party leaders feeling disappointed yet accepting of her choice.
Salman Khurshid, a veteran Congress figure, reminisced about the atmosphere surrounding her decision. He recalled being the Uttar Pradesh PCC president at the time, with many party workers urging Gandhi to take on the PM role. “We were all waiting and hoping,” he said. When the announcement was made, it was indeed a shock for many, but the leadership’s decision was ultimately accepted.
Congress MP Kumari Selja echoed Khurshid’s sentiments, emphasizing Gandhi’s straightforwardness in expressing her feelings. She described the moment as highly emotional, noting that everyone had hoped for her leadership to steer Congress back to power. “It was a time of great expectations,” Selja remarked, acknowledging the collective disappointment when Gandhi chose not to accept the role.
The book has drawn significant interest globally, with many eager to hear Gandhi’s perspective on her experiences. Selja noted that the narrative reflects her journey and the challenges she faced. Former Union Law Minister Ashwani Kumar urged all Indians to read Gandhi’s memoir, highlighting her as a significant female leader often surrounded by misconceptions.
Congress leader Prem Chandra Mishra praised Gandhi’s influence on Indian politics, especially during challenging times for the party. Bhupesh Baghel, another Congress leader, added that Gandhi has become an integral part of the nation’s culture and traditions, having sacrificed the prime ministership not just once, but twice.
These reflections underscore the lasting impact of Sonia Gandhi’s leadership and her pivotal role in shaping Congress’s trajectory.
