MS Shanker
Priyanka Vadra, often compared to her grandmother Indira Gandhi for her striking resemblance and demeanor, raised expectations when she participated in the Lok Sabha debate on the Indian Constitution. Many hoped she would deliver a compelling and impactful speech, positioning herself as a credible voice for her party. However, her performance turned out to be underwhelming, leaving even her supporters disappointed.
Instead of making a strong case, Priyanka dismissed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s concluding remarks as routine and insipid. This casual dismissal did little to bolster her credibility. The Congress party, riddled with a history of constitutional amendments driven by dynastic motives rather than public welfare, has neither shown remorse for past missteps nor acknowledged its role in eroding democratic principles. Priyanka’s failure to address this legacy only compounded the lack of substance in her speech.
What could have been an opportunity to showcase her composure and intellect turned into a rhetorical exercise devoid of depth. Like her brother Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka faltered, choosing vague platitudes over factual arguments. While she rightly pointed out that Parliament should focus on addressing public issues in the true spirit of the Constitution, her party’s disruptive tactics—walkouts and protests—paint a contradictory picture. As a first-time MP and a key member of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty, she was well-positioned to lead by example, urging her party colleagues to channel their dissent within Parliament instead of resorting to theatrics outside it.
Admitting past mistakes is often the first step toward rebuilding trust, whether in politics or personal life. People appreciate leaders who accept responsibility and commit to rectifying errors. However, the Congress party’s consistent reluctance to acknowledge its historical blunders continues to erode its moral standing. Priyanka missed a crucial chance to signal a shift in approach—one that could have resonated with voters seeking accountability and sincerity.
Many within her party had placed their hopes in Priyanka, especially after Rahul Gandhi’s repeated failures to connect with the electorate. Known for his scripted and often unconvincing speeches, Rahul has done little to inspire confidence among loyalists or the general public. Priyanka was seen as a fresh alternative, someone capable of taking the fight to the BJP-led NDA government and Prime Minister Modi. Yet, her lacklustre debut in such an important debate only reinforced doubts about the Congress party’s ability to produce a leader who can match the BJP’s political acumen.
For Priyanka Vadra, the Lok Sabha session was a missed opportunity—a chance to step out of her brother’s shadow and redefine the narrative. Instead, her performance left many questioning whether the Congress’s reliance on dynastic politics has become its greatest liability.
