Rahul's views on some key issues

Newly appointed Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi has, while declining offers of ministership since his election to the Lok Sabha in 2004, expressed diverse views on matters of policy.

Here’s a sample:
On poverty: “The biggest task facing India is elimination of poverty. We are going to use all our resources to win the battle. Without helping the poor and the weaker sections, we cannot make the country move forward.”

On corruption: “Corruption is pervasive; it operates at every level. The prime concern of the UPA government would be to eliminate corruption and check siphoning of public money. The UPA government’s initiative to deliver Rs 2 lakh crore directly to people’s bank accounts under the Direct Benefits Transfer scheme is just a practical approach towards eliminating corruption for the benefit of the poor.”

On a Lok Pal: An effective Lok Pal is only one element in the legal framework to combat corruption. The institution alone cannot be a substitute for a comprehensive anti-corruption code. A set of effective laws is required. Make the Lok Pal a constitutional body, accountable to Parliament like the Election Commission of India.”

On terrorism: “Terrorism and communalism of all kinds are a threat to India. We need to remain vigilant against terrorism of all kinds, no matter who commits these.”

On the Right to Information Act: “The law has brought transparency in governance and is a benefit in administrative and public life.”

On challenges faced by the party: “There is a need to open the political system for the common man. The party has faced different challenges at different times in the past and there is no reason why the party would not be able to overcome the various challenges it faces. It is a great party.”

On foreign direct investment in retailing: The entry of international supermarket chains will allow farmers to get a better price for their produce. Compare the price of a kg of potatoes and a pack of potato wafers. Wafer manufacturers earn a higher profit margin than farmers who grow potatoes. FDI will change this situation.”

On the Delhi rape case: “Congress is resolved to ensure the security and dignity of women and follow the laws of the land. As citizens, we must resolve to respect the dignity of women. We as a nation must reflect on the events of the days gone by.”