As Priyanka Gandhi’s name appeared on the list of ‘Star Campaigners’ of the Congress, fuelling speculations that she would play a larger role in upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, the party clarified that she will only campaign in Raebareli and Amethi districts of the state.
In previous elections, Priyanka has campaigned for her brother Rahul Gandhi and mother Sonia in Amethi and Rae Bareli Parliamentary seats respectively.
"Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will campaign only in Raebareli and Amethi. It's her decision and we have always respected her privacy," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told CNN News-18 channel.
Both the districts are considered bastions of Congress and have have been represented by the members of Nehru-Gandhi family in the Parliament.
Surjewala, however, said party workers want her to campaign all across the state.
"In case she decides to expand her role, we will inform you," he told the news channel.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra played a significant role in striking an alliance with the Samajwadi Party in the poll-bound state, securing 105 seats for Congress in the deal. The party won 28 seats in last assembly elections.
There has been widespread speculation about Priyanka assuming a larger role in the party, particularly after her mother and Congress president Sonia Gandhi started not keeping well.
This was the first time, the Congress has publicly acknowledged the “active role” played by Priyanka Gandhi but has been evasive about the part she could play in the party in future.
However, the party sources say that she could share stage with Dimple, with whom she has a good rapport. Sources said that even some Samajwadi Party leaders are enthusiastic about having Priyanka campaign in their constituencies.
Speech pointers of Dimple and Priyanka are being finalised. While Dimple will highlight clean image of her husband Akhilesh Yadav, the development work and schemes by state government, Priyanka will try to consolidate Congress voters with speeches focusing on women and farmers.
Priyanka will undertake the responsibility to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Centre in her speeches, sources said.
UP will go to seven-phased elections from February 11 to March 8 to elect a new 403-seat assembly.
