The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized Rahul Gandhi, suggesting he is on track to achieve a “century of defeats” in the upcoming election. Congress leaders, like Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, have endorsed Gandhi as a potential leader of the INDIA bloc, but other opposition members, such as the Samajwadi Party and Trinamool Congress, have reservations about this proposal.
BJP’s chief spokesperson, Navnath Ban, emphasized Gandhi’s track record of electoral losses, stating that he has lost 99% of the elections he has contested. Ban hinted at celebrating Gandhi’s “century” of defeats in the next election. He also criticized Gandhi for allegedly using inappropriate language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, labeling him a “traitor” for supposedly defaming the country while abroad.
In response, JD(U) chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar questioned the INDIA Bloc’s leadership choice and urged clarity on their policies and vision. He raised concerns about respecting the country’s traditions and highlighted the qualifications of other potential leaders like Tejashwi Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, M.K. Stalin, and Mallikarjun Kharge, emphasizing that leadership should not be limited by factors like caste.
Samajwadi Party leader Udayveer Singh dismissed the significance of the ongoing statements, emphasizing that the decisions within the INDIA Bloc will be made collectively during alliance meetings. Meanwhile, Congress leader Hussain Dalwai defended Rahul Gandhi, praising his efforts in building a positive public image through interactions, visits, and raising pertinent questions.
