Regional parties should merge with the Congress and strengthen Rahul: Ashok Gehlot
The Sunday Mail
New Delhi: Former Rajasthan Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot has stated that all parties that broke away from the Congress to form regional entities should rejoin the party and wholeheartedly accept Rahul Gandhi as their leader. Rahul Gandhi is the only leader capable of directly challenging the NDA government at the Centre and saving the Constitution and democracy, especially given the current, deeply concerning state of the nation.
Speaking to the media, Gehlot remarked that there is substance in what Sanjay Raut said. The time has come for everyone to unite and fight to save democracy. Gehlot said, “I support Sanjay Raut’s statement; regional parties that originated from the Congress should rejoin the fold and accept Rahul Gandhi as their leader. A clear message must go out across the country that Rahul Gandhi is the leader of the ‘INDIA’ alliance. This message needs to be unambiguous; only then will the public ensure your success. People observe the landscape—on one side is Narendra Modi, and on the other is Rahul Gandhi. If a clear message goes out that all political parties have collectively accepted Rahul Gandhi as their leader, you will see a shift in voting patterns. It is a different matter regarding parties like Shiv Sena, CPM, CPI, and SP, which have remained separate; we cannot lay claim to them or urge them to join. However, the other parties that emerged from the Congress should reflect on this. I believe democracy in the country is in grave danger. Why do I repeatedly urge the younger generation—whether students or youth—to enter politics based on ideology? Your time has come; step forward and participate in politics. Understand the ideologies of all parties, and join the one you feel best serves the national interest—we have no objection to that. But at least come forward and get involved. History will ask you, too, in the future: what role did you play during your time?” Do not hold back; do not shy away. Come, participate, and play your part.
