Rahul Gandhi Refrains from Naming PM Candidate for INDIA Bloc, Congress Unveils Manifesto

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi refrained from naming a prime ministerial candidate for the INDIA bloc ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. At a press conference, Gandhi stated that the decision on the PM candidate will be made post-election victory.

Speculations arose regarding the potential PM face of the Congress party after the release of their manifesto. Notably, the image of Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge was featured in the manifesto, prompting questions about their role.

Responding to queries about who would be the PM candidate, Gandhi emphasized the INDIA bloc’s collective approach to fighting an ideological election. He mentioned that the coalition would collectively decide on the leadership post-election.

The Congress Working Committee, under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, approved the party’s manifesto with a focus on justice. Senior leader Chidambaram highlighted the threats and denials of justice over the past decade.

The ‘Nyay Patra’ manifesto includes promises such as ensuring the Right to apprenticeship, a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price, and advocating for a constitutional amendment to increase reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs beyond the current cap.

Furthermore, the Congress pledged in its manifesto to abolish the Agnipath program, engage with countries like the Maldives and Myanmar, and address cross-border terrorism with Pakistan depending on their willingness to cooperate.

The manifesto also outlined plans to expand the Indian Foreign Service, establish more missions abroad, and leverage economic strengths to enhance the country’s global position.