Priyanka Gandhi ready to contest against PM Modi from Varanasi: Sources

Priyanka Gandhi ready to contest against PM Modi from Varanasi: Sources

Congress in-charge for Uttar Pradesh (East) Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is willing to contest against PM Modi. If she indeed contests, it will be the most watched match-up of Lok Sabha election 2019, where a member of the Gandhi family will directly challenge the might of PM Modi, that too from Varanasi.

According to sources, Priyanka Gandhi has given serious thought to the possibility of contesting against PM Narendra Modi. The party hopes that such a fight, even if symbolic to an extent will greatly enthuse workers of the region. However, the final decision will be taken by Congress President Rahul Gandhi.

PM Modi contested for the first time from Varanasi in 2014, winning by a massive margin of 3.70 lakh votes. Arvind Kejriwal came second, polling over 2 lakh votes. Congress candidate Ajay Rai got 75,000 odd votes. Even a combined candidate of the opposition will find it extremely difficult to pose a serious threat to PM Modi's candidature from Varanasi.

Traditionally, barring once in 2004, BJP has won Varanasi comfortably since 1991.

However, Congress has already surprised political pundits by announcing Rahul Gandhi's candidature from Wayanad, in Kerala apart from the traditional bastion of Amethi. Even Priyanka Gandhi's entry into formal politics ahead of Lok Sabha polls was a surprise. Hence, the chances of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra finally contesting against PM Modi can't certainly be ruled out.

Congress is hopeful of putting up a good fight in old strongholds like Phulpur and Prayagraj due to Priyanka Gandhi's presence.