Addressing the Wayanad constituency directly for the second time, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi engaged with the public on Wednesday. He started by expressing his gratitude, soon asking, 'Should I serve as MP from Wayanad or Raebareli?' The crowd answered 'Wayanad.' Gandhi promised to make a decision that will please residents of both constituencies. He thanked everyone for their unwavering support and assured them that he would return to meet them again soon.
The dilemma before Gandhi is not only personal but also strategic, as Raebareli is traditionally a stronghold of the Gandhi family, while Wayanad embraced him after a defeat in Amethi. The decision will eventually lead to a byelection in the vacated seat, offering Congress another chance to secure a victory.
During his visit to Wayanad on Wednesday, Gandhi emphasized that the recent elections were a victory of love over hate, and humbleness triumphing over arrogance. He highlighted the close call for the ruling party, suggesting that Indian citizens have rejected violence and supported a more inclusive vision.
Gandhi continued, 'A major dilemma faces me now. Do I stand as MP from Wayanad or Raebareli? Although I am not divinely guided like PM Modi professes to be, my guiding force is the poor people of India, especially those from Wayanad. I seek to converse with my people and decide our way forward. Let us revisit the question: Wayanad or Raebareli?' The crowd echoed, 'Wayanad.'
Gandhi also took the opportunity to critique the Prime Minister, alleging that Modi prioritizes corporate interests over the people's needs. He sarcastically mentioned the shifting slogans and claimed that the PM's divine guidance seems oddly aligned with helping certain industrialists.
Sharing more of his visit, Gandhi recalled a childhood experience where he found a Kathakali performance tedious, which later became fascinating when understood in the context of Kerala's rich culture. He recognized the value of India's diverse cultures and languages, asserting that the Constitution safeguards these traditions against homogenization. He emphasized that the battle was for the Constitution and the choice of the people to define their future, against the narrative of uniformity proposed by the ruling party.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi culminated his visit with a roadshow in Kerala, marking his first visit after the election results, where thousands of UDF workers and supporters gathered, reflecting his strong following and support within the state.
