Ashok Gehlot,Sachin Pilot and Rahul Gandhi
In a strategic move to showcase unity within the party, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Ashok Gehlot, and Sachin Pilot engaged in a series of “pehle aap, pehle aap” moments during a campaign in Jaipur leading up to the November 25 election. A video shared by the news agency captured the leaders playfully deferring to each other to take the lead, signaling a concerted effort to present a cohesive front.
#WATCH | Rajasthan Elections | CM Ashok Gehlot and Congress leader Sachin Pilot seen together with Rahul Gandhi, in Jaipur.
Rahul Gandhi says, “We are not only seen together but we are also united. We will be together and Congress will sweep the elections here and win.” pic.twitter.com/sWezSuuv0X
— ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2023
The symbolic display of solidarity comes at a crucial time for the Congress in Rajasthan, attempting to fortify its position amidst internal strife. The longstanding rivalry between the Gehlot and Pilot factions, which nearly led to the toppling of the state government in 2020, remains a significant challenge. The party is actively working to project a united image to safeguard its electoral prospects.
Addressing the media during the event, Rahul Gandhi emphasized the depth of their unity, declaring, “We are not just seen together, we are together and will stay together. And the Congress will sweep the elections here (in Rajasthan).” This statement was met with visible approval from Chief Minister Gehlot, who appeared visibly pleased.
The episode is part of the Congress’s concerted efforts to ensure internal conflicts do not adversely impact its chances in the upcoming election. Both Gehlot and Pilot have echoed the message of party unity, with Gehlot reinforcing the sentiment by sharing a picture with Pilot captioned in Hindi, “Together, we are winning again.”
एक साथ
जीत रहे हैं फिर से#कांग्रेस_फिर_से pic.twitter.com/saWIdZ0SGl— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) November 15, 2023
As the election fervor intensifies, Rahul Gandhi is set to address rallies in Churu, Hanumangarh, and Sriganganagar districts as part of the Congress’s comprehensive campaign strategy. Gandhi’s presence in Jaipur, alongside his mother Sonia Gandhi, holds dual significance, serving both as a political maneuver and a personal retreat from the severe air pollution in Delhi.
