In Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Maneka Gandhi, a prominent figure in the BJP, hinted that her son Varun Gandhi’s penned opinions, occasionally critical of the government, might have influenced the party’s decision to withhold his Lok Sabha ticket from Pilibhit. However, she confidently stated that his capabilities transcend such setbacks. During an exclusive interview with PTI at her abode, the former Union minister and BJP’s Sultanpur candidate disclosed that Varun Gandhi expressed interest in supporting her campaign, yet a definitive decision remains pending.
The electoral battle for the Sultanpur seat in Uttar Pradesh is slated for May 25, marking the sixth phase of the seven-phase general elections. Pilibhit underwent polling in the initial phase on April 19. Reflecting on Varun Gandhi’s denied ticket and whether she harbored maternal disappointment, Maneka Gandhi remarked, “While I can’t claim elation, I hold firm belief in Varun’s ability to excel despite the absence of a ticket.”
Responding to sentiments from Pilibhit advocating for Varun Gandhi’s candidacy from the region, she concurred, “Indeed, his presence would have been fitting, but the party’s resolution stands. Regarding the future prospect of Varun Gandhi transitioning back to Sultanpur or maintaining Pilibhit as his ‘karmabhoomi,’ Maneka Gandhi affirmed, “Presently, Pilibhit remains his domain of service, as does India. Let him extend his endeavors far and wide.”
When pressed on whether Varun Gandhi’s critical writings on certain subjects influenced the ticket denial, she responded, “I struggle to discern an alternative rationale.” Regarding Varun Gandhi’s potential involvement in her Sultanpur campaign, Maneka Gandhi disclosed his eagerness to participate but underlined the unresolved nature of the decision-making process. “I’m inclined to spare everyone from this dilemma,” she added.
The seasoned parliamentarian emphasized her electoral discourse, focusing solely on local concerns. “My narrative centers on accomplished and prospective endeavors, a narrative that resonates more profoundly with constituents than broader national issues,” she conveyed to PTI. Reflecting on her electoral standing this time vis-à-vis her previous victory by a margin exceeding 14,000 votes, she remarked, “I’ve acclimated, and the electoral landscape appears promising; hopefully, we’ll achieve even greater success.”
Delving into her late husband Sanjay Gandhi’s developmental initiatives in the region and their enduring impact, she remarked on the enduring legacy of their family’s contributions. In addressing the dominant narrative of the Ram temple in BJP discourse in Uttar Pradesh, she opined that while significant, Sultanpur’s electorate may prioritize other concerns over this theme, despite its proximity to Ayodhya.
While acknowledging the sentimental attachment to the Ayodhya temple, she clarified, “Though deeply ingrained, it remains unarticulated in the electoral discourse.” Maneka Gandhi also criticized Congress leader Sam Pitroda for raising the issue of inheritance tax, deeming it inappropriate for a responsible party member to comment from abroad. She personally opposed the notion of inheritance tax.
Commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance on wealth redistribution, she interpreted his remarks as a direct response to Pitroda’s statements. Highlighting the tangible impact of government schemes, Maneka Gandhi cited the provision of rations and the realization of “pucca” houses as transformative initiatives. She underscored the profound effect these measures have had on the populace.
Asked about the BJP’s performance after three phases of the Lok Sabha polls, Gandhi refrained from speculation, emphasizing her singular focus on her constituency’s electoral dynamics. Regarding the feasibility of the BJP’s ambitious electoral targets, she remarked, “Their proclamation suggests feasibility; otherwise, it would not have been made.” On the prospect of resuming ministerial duties in a re-elected NDA government, she remained uncertain, emphasizing her lack of involvement in such decisions.
When prompted about any unrealized aspirations, she expressed a plethora of ambitions within the realm of animal welfare. Dismissing predictions regarding her electoral victory margin, Gandhi maintained a pragmatic stance, asserting confidence in victory without speculating on the margin. In the 2019 elections, she secured victory with 4,59,196 votes, defeating BSP’s Chandra Bhadra Singh in Sultanpur.
In the current electoral contest, she faces off against Ram Bhual Nishad of the Samajwadi Party. The BJP nominated Uttar Pradesh Public Works Minister Jitin Prasada for the Pilibhit constituency, replacing Varun Gandhi, who had previously voiced dissent against certain governmental policies. Despite being denied a ticket, Varun Gandhi penned an emotional missive to his constituents, vowing to remain connected to them.
The Pilibhit constituency has been under the dominion of either Maneka Gandhi or her son since 1996. Maneka Gandhi secured victory in 1989 on a Janata Dal ticket, experienced defeat in 1991, and reclaimed the seat in 1996. Subsequently, she emerged victorious in 1998 and 1999 as an Independent candidate, followed by triumphs in 2004 and 2014 under the BJP banner. Varun Gandhi clinched victories in 2009 and 2019 as a BJP candidate.