Speculations Rise on Priyanka Gandhi’s Leadership Role; Upendra Kushwaha Questions Rahul Gandhi’s Credibility

PATNA: Speculation over Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi taking on a major leadership role within the party in 2026 has created waves across Bihar’s political landscape. While party insiders hint at an expanded and strategic responsibility for Priyanka, opposition leaders are portraying this as a sign of Rahul Gandhi’s alleged leadership failure.

Priyanka Gandhi Could Take on a Key Role
Currently serving as General Secretary without a specific portfolio, Priyanka Gandhi had her responsibility for Uttar Pradesh withdrawn after the party’s defeat in the 2022 assembly elections. According to sources, she is now being considered for a new, influential position—possibly as the head of the Campaign Committee or the Election Management Committee—rather than being restricted to a single state.

Statements from Priyanka’s husband, Robert Vadra, and Congress MP from Uttar Pradesh, Imran Masood, have fueled discussions about a leadership transition. Masood has hinted at her potential as a Prime Ministerial contender, while Vadra noted growing public demand for Priyanka to take on a larger leadership role. Political analysts interpret Vadra’s statements as a subtle nod towards the Congress president’s position.

Upendra Kushwaha Questions Rahul Gandhi’s Leadership
Reacting sharply to Vadra’s remarks, Rajya Sabha MP Upendra Kushwaha questioned Rahul Gandhi’s leadership credibility. “The way Robert Vadra is advocating for Priyanka Gandhi’s rise makes it clear that even Congress no longer trusts Rahul Gandhi’s leadership,” Kushwaha said.

Kushwaha further added with a note of sarcasm that whether it is Priyanka or Rahul, no Congress leader is likely to occupy the Prime Minister’s chair in the coming years. He emphasized that the country remains secure under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, and this is expected to continue.

Kushwaha on Rahul Gandhi’s Berlin Comments
Kushwaha also criticized Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks in Berlin, where he commented on Indian institutions. “Rahul Gandhi needs to understand that issues concerning the nation should be discussed within India. Criticizing domestic systems abroad is unacceptable,” he said. He added that the public has already responded to such statements in the past and will continue to hold him accountable.