Ajay Rai Shuts Down BJP Defection Rumors: 'I Am a Congress Soldier'
Former UP Congress chief Ajay Rai denies rumors of joining the BJP and announces his plan to contest the 2027 elections from Pindra.
In a decisive move to silence political speculation, former Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President Ajay Rai has firmly dismissed rumors suggesting he might defect to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Speaking from Varanasi, Rai asserted his unwavering loyalty to the Congress party, describing the whispers of his departure as completely baseless.
Commitment Over Power
Rai emphasized that his dedication to the Congress party outweighs any desire for official titles or positions of power. He stated clearly that he remains a "dedicated soldier" of the party and has no intention of abandoning the organization he has served for years.
To underscore his commitment, Rai reflected on his early political journey. He recalled being one of the youngest legislators when he was first elected from the Pindra constituency in 1996. At that time, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) held power in Uttar Pradesh, and its chief, Mayawati, had offered him a cabinet minister position.
According to Rai, BSP leader Naseemuddin Siddiqui contacted him multiple times on behalf of Mayawati to finalize the proposal. Despite being an independent MLA at the time, Rai chose to align himself with the Congress, a decision he has stood by ever since. He noted that for him, the party's ideology and identity are far more significant than being a minister or a state party president.
Targeting the BJP and 2027 Goals
The former state chief did not hold back in his critique of the ruling BJP. Rai alleged that the party has been attempting to lure him into its fold since the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, with similar efforts continuing during the 2024 polls.
Comparing the BJP's recruitment tactics to those of a fisherman, Rai claimed the party uses various enticements to pull politicians from across the country into its ranks. He further accused the BJP of damaging the future prospects of the youth.
The Road to Pindra 2027
Looking ahead to the future of Uttar Pradesh politics, Ajay Rai announced his intention to contest the 2027 assembly elections from the Pindra constituency in Varanasi. Expressing strong confidence in his grassroots support, he claimed he would defeat the BJP candidate in the upcoming battle.
Rai concluded by stating that the love and support he receives within the Congress party keep him motivated, leaving no room for the possibility of joining any other political organization.