Smriti Irani Taunts Rahul Gandhi, Challenges Him to Stand Solo in Amethi LS Polls

In the Amethi parliamentary constituency, both Gandhi and Irani were present, recalling the significant electoral battle of 2019, where Irani emerged victorious over Gandhi, who currently serves as the MP for Kerala's Wayanad.

Highlighting the scene during Rahul Gandhi's recent visit to Amethi as part of his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, Union Minister Smriti Irani asserted that Gandhi was met with deserted streets, questioning his previous representation and challenging him to stand independently in Amethi during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Irani addressed the media, stating, "Rahul Gandhi once perceived Amethi as the nucleus of power but failed to deliver. Hence, his reception amidst empty streets. The absence of Congress supporters forced them to import workers from Sultanpur and Pratapgarh." She further criticized Gandhi for allegedly neglecting Amethi's interests, pointing out his decision to contest from Wayanad instead.

Drawing attention to the rejection of an invitation from the people of Amethi by Gandhi and his family in favor of Wayanad, Irani emphasized the dissatisfaction among Amethi residents. She issued a challenge to Gandhi, daring him to contest from Amethi alone, echoing her victory over him in the 2019 elections after his 15-year stronghold on the constituency. Despite his defeat in Amethi, Gandhi secured victory in Wayanad.

Irani attributed the electoral shift in Amethi to a desire for change and asserted that the Gandhi family's decision to withdraw from Raebareli ahead of the 2024 polls reflects this sentiment.

Sonia Gandhi's recent announcement of not contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections due to health and age concerns prompted Irani to comment on the changing political landscape. Additionally, addressing the uncertainty surrounding Akhilesh Yadav's involvement in the Nyay Yatra, Irani questioned the support for a leader who himself seeks assistance, referencing Yadav's party's stance on participation until seat-sharing negotiations with the Congress are finalized in Uttar Pradesh.

Irani also highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked to increase the business capacity of Amethi through the establishment of small units. "An investment of Rs 6,253 crore has been made in Amethi, 662 projects have started. The Coca-Cola factory established in Ramganj Trishundi, Amethi, is the largest in South Asia. The biggest enterprise is the country's largest hatchery and poultry feed established in Amethi," she added.