"Many Wrote Our Obituaries": Sonia Gandhi Slams Critics, Credits Son Rahul's Yatras For 'Rejuvenation' Of Congress

Freshly re-elected Congress parliamentary party chief Sonia Gandhi while congratulating the newly elected MPs, has stated that many had predicted the demise of the Congress party before the election, but it has shown resilience and made a strong comeback.

Speaking at the party's parliamentary meeting yesterday (08 June), Gandhi expressed gratitude for the responsibility entrusted to her.

"I am deeply conscious of the great responsibility all of you have placed on me yet again. Let me first of all greet and congratulate all the newly elected Lok Sabha MPs. You have fought a tough election under the most challenging of circumstances. You have surmounted many obstacles and campaigned so very effectively," she said.

Gandhi also noted that the Congress's increased representation, winning 99 seats compared to 52 in 2019, would enhance its influence in parliamentary proceedings.

"Your success has given us a much, much greater presence in the Lok Sabha and a more effective voice in its proceedings, both of which will help give greater strength to our participation," she stated.

She criticised the formidable opposition the party faced, describing it as "a mighty and malevolent machine" attempting to destroy them.

"It tried to cripple us financially and carried out a campaign against us. Many wrote our obituaries," she added.

Gandhi praised party president Mallikarjun Kharge for his leadership. "Under Kharge ji's determined leadership, we persevered. He is an inspiration to us all. His commitment to the party organisation and its ideology is extraordinary, and we must learn from his example," she said.

Highlighting Rahul Gandhi's yatras' role in the party's success, she remarked, "The Bharat Jodo Yatra and the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra were historic movements that rejuvenated our party at all levels. Rahul deserves special thanks for his tenacity and determination to fight on despite unprecedented personal and political attacks. He also sharply shaped our narrative on guarantees and the protection of the Constitution."

"I believe that our consistent upholding of the importance of our Constitution during our campaigns compelled the Prime Minister to bow to the Constitution yesterday," she continued.

She also commended candidates who didn't win, acknowledging their valiant efforts.

Despite the victory, Gandhi warned of challenging times ahead. She concluded by emphasising the election's outcome as a rejection of divisiveness and authoritarianism.