'I am Hanuman to Rahul Gandhi': Ajay Rai after UP Congress Reshuffle
Following the UP Congress reshuffle, Ajay Rai declares himself a 'Hanuman' to Rahul Gandhi, pledging continued fight against the BJP.
In a powerful show of loyalty following a major leadership overhaul in the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC), former state president Ajay Rai has declared himself a "Hanuman" to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Despite losing his formal designation, Rai has pledged to remain at the forefront of the party's battle against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Loyalty Beyond Designation
Speaking to reporters in Varanasi, Rai emphasized that his commitment to the party's cause is not tied to a specific title or post. He stated that he remains fully aligned with the decisions made by the national leadership, regardless of whether he holds an official position or not.
"Whatever decision the national leadership makes... They told me to fight Modi, and I fought openly with full strength, and I will continue to fight," Rai remarked. He further added, "I am certainly a 'Hanuman' to my leader Rahul Gandhi; wherever he says, I will be there."
The Transitory Nature of Power
Reflecting on his political journey, including his tenure as a five-time MLA from Pindra, Rai noted that political positions are temporary. He highlighted his history of grassroots involvement, recalling instances where he stepped in to provide medical support when government funds were insufficient.
A Legacy of Grassroots Service
- Direct Action: Rai noted that he has personally arranged support for citizens in times of crisis.
- Personal Sacrifice: He mentioned donating his own blood in regions like Pindra and Kolasla to assist the needy.
- Philosophy: He emphasized that while posts come and go, the work for the people remains constant.
Advice to New UPCC President Aradhana Misra
The leadership reshuffle comes as the Congress party ramps up its campaign strategy ahead of high-stakes Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. Aradhana Misra 'Mona', the daughter of senior leader and Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari, has been appointed as the new UPCC president, replacing Rai.
Rai issued a strong message to the new president, urging her to stand as a shield for the party workers. He emphasized the need to protect them from perceived atrocities or injustices by the ruling BJP government, the police, or affiliated groups.
"I would certainly like to say to Aradhana Mishra 'Mona' to work with full strength to protect the respect of the workers... Wherever BJP's government, BJP's police, or BJP's goons... commit atrocities or injustice against our workers, protect your workers with full strength," Rai urged.
Major Organizational Overhaul
The Congress high command, via AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal, has implemented these changes to strengthen the organizational structure in the state. Alongside the new presidency, the party has announced several key appointments to bolster its ranks:
- Working President: Lok Sabha MP Imran Masood has been named the Working President of the UPCC.
- Senior Vice Presidents: Devinder Nishad and Alok Prasad have been appointed to these senior roles.