Smriti Irani on Congress’s Amethi Candidate: “Couldn’t Care Less” in Lok Sabha Election 2024

In an interview with NDTV, Smriti Irani, who filed her nomination to defend the VIP constituency of Uttar Pradesh, expressed confidence that whoever the Congress fields in Amethi will be defeated. She stated that the Congress has a tough task ahead in Amethi, as the party has not yet announced its candidate for the constituency, hinting at a lack of confidence in their victory. Speculation has been rife regarding the Congress candidates for Amethi and Raebareli, particularly with Sonia Gandhi vacating her seat in Raebareli to move to the Rajya Sabha.

There is an expectation within the Congress’s rank and file that Rahul Gandhi may attempt to win back Amethi, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra may take over her mother’s role in Raebareli. However, there are also suggestions that the party might consider swapping the constituencies. When asked about her preference for an opponent between Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Irani dismissed the significance, asserting her confidence in defeating either candidate.

She criticized both as “absentee politicians” from the area, emphasizing her own work in the constituency, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Irani highlighted the challenges faced by the constituency during the pandemic and criticized the Gandhis for their absence in providing aid. She praised the efforts of Prime Minister Modi in ensuring free ration and the availability of vaccines, emphasizing the understanding of the people in the region that the Prime Minister played a crucial role in addressing these challenges.