Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Monday dismissed any comparison between her mother-in-law and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Narendra Modi. During an exclusive interview with a television channel, Gandhi stated that there was “absolutely” no similarity between the two leaders. “It [the comparison] does not trouble me, I have my clear views,” she added.
The politician’s comments were a response to frequent parallels drawn between the two leaders. “Indira Gandhi had empathy for the common man, today’s leaders don’t have it,” she said. The Congress president said Indira Gandhi’s greatest contribution was “her loyalty and dedication” to the country. “She identified with the people, she was deeply compassionate. She never felt she was a woman among all the men, she always felt she was an equal.”
However, Gandhi was tight-lipped about her son and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi’s role in electoral politics. She, however, said that she hoped her party will be able to secure full majority in the next Parliamentary election.
On her own entry into politics, the Congress president said, “I thought I was a bit of coward to not join [politics]. At that time there was nothing else on my mind but to uphold the ideals of not just my mother-in-law, but my husband and the party.”
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!