New Delhi: Ajay Rai, the new Congress chief of Uttar Pradesh, made an announcement that Rahul Gandhi is set to contest from Amethi. During a media interaction on Friday, Rai shared his thoughts, a day after assuming the role of the party chief in the state. He further stated that Priyanka Gandhi will be contesting from whichever constituency she chooses. Rai emphasized that if she decides to challenge PM Modi from Varanasi, the entire party workforce will strive to secure her victory.

Looking back to 2019, when speculations were rampant about Priyanka Gandhi's potential contest against PM Modi in Varanasi, Ajay Rai was eventually nominated from the Varanasi constituency.

Revisiting the 2014 elections, Ajay Rai had previously contested from Varanasi and faced defeat at the hands of Narendra Modi. In the months leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Ajay Rai assumed the role of president of the Uttar Pradesh Congress, succeeding Brijlal Khabri.

Before Ajay Rai's recent announcement, there were indications from Priyanka Gandhi's husband, Robert Vadra, suggesting the possibility of her entry into electoral politics. Vadra remarked to news agency PTI, "Priyanka should definitely be in the Lok Sabha. She possesses all the qualifications and would excel in Parliament. She rightfully deserves to be a part of it. I hope the Congress party acknowledges this and plans accordingly."

Rahul Gandhi's Electoral Choices: Amethi and Wayanad
Reflecting on 2019, Rahul Gandhi contested from both Amethi and Wayanad. While Amethi held sentimental value as his traditional seat, Wayanad marked his foray into the South. Smriti Irani emerged as a prominent figure by defeating Rahul Gandhi in the Amethi constituency, making her a formidable opponent.