RAHUL RISE: GANDHI SCION IS A MAN TO RECKON WITH
From tweets to replies on major issues, Congress leader gains in popularity
It’s been a long wait but is finally turning out good for the Congress as the Gandhi scion is finally moving into top gear. The last couple of weeks have been satisfying for Rahul Gandhi who has not only made it to the headlines but has also taken the battle to the BJP camp. The September visit of Mr Gandhi to the United States of America is being seen as a turning point where he answered questions on dynasty. The jury is still out whether the answer was apt or not but it certainly caused a flutter in the BJP that fielded four central ministers to take on the Congress vice-president. Social media, the bastion of the BJP, is being invaded by the Congress. Leading the charge is Mr Gandhi who targeting PM Narendra Modi and his government. Interestingly, his followers have increased by a million on on Twitter. So much so that the BJP had to actively tweet a story alleging fake bots increasing Mr Gandhi’s popularity on the social media.
The interesting aspect that has emerged is that this perhaps is the first time Mr Gandhi is setting agenda of the political discourse while his opponents are responding. Every time he tweets or addresses a rally, the BJP deputes Central ministers to respond. Even the PM pointed out a gaffe of Mr Gandhi in one his rallies in Gujarat. Though the comment certainly did not make Mr Gandhi look good but impression went that he is being responded to.
After much hiccups Mr Gandhi is all set to take over as the Congress president. His stature and political activity has certainly got him to the centre stage making even his political opponents take note. The impact that this resurgence will have on the poll prospects of the Congress is yet to be seen.
The glee in the Congress camp is unmistakable — ridiculed or retaliated, Mr. Gandhi now can't be ignored.