Rahul Gandhi

Surendran is set to enter the upcoming Lok Sabha elections as a candidate from the Wayanad LS constituency under the BJP banner.

In a conversation with journalists, the former Chief Minister underscored the Congress's stance as a party devoid of caste prejudices, adamantly opposed to the propagation of politics based on caste affiliations.

Gandhi pointed fingers at the BJP's propaganda machinery for distorting his words and criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for twisting his statements to fit his agenda.

Known for his devout devotion to Lord Shiva, Rahul Gandhi's visit to the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple holds significant importance, as confirmed by the state Congress President, Nana Patole. The yatra's entry into Maharashtra was met with enthusiastic support as preparations are underway for Gandhi's visit.

Among the key announcements, Gandhi pledged an annual deposit of Rs 1 lakh into the bank accounts of impoverished women, along with ensuring a 50 per cent reservation for women in government jobs. Emphasizing the need for substantial changes, he also vowed to double the central government's allocation for ASHA workers, as well as women working in anganwadis and mid-day meal schemes.

Embarking on its journey from Manipur on January 15th, the BJNY has covered a remarkable distance of 6,700 kilometers, traversing through 110 Lok Sabha constituencies spanning across 15 states. The voyage will reach its zenith with a public rally scheduled for March 17th at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park in Mumbai, graced by prominent leaders of the national Opposition INDIA bloc.

Among the notable names in the list, Congress general secretary K C Venugopal will vie for the Alappuzha seat in Kerala, while former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel will contest from Rajnandgaon. Additionally, Jyotsna Mahant, Tamradhwaj Sahu, and Shashi Tharoor are among the candidates for Korba, Mahasamund, and Thiruvananthapuram respectively.

After a thorough review of the situation, taking into account a Delhi High Court order and Gandhi's response, the ECI advised Gandhi to exercise greater care and discretion in his future public statements.

During the ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in the tribal-dominated Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of withholding the disclosure of purchasers of electoral bonds.

Ashoka further accused the Congress party of fostering anti-national sentiments and harboring members associated with the so-called 'tukde-tukde' gang.