Anand Sharma downplays Digvijay's views on leadership change

Senior Congress leader and former minister Anand Sharma on Saturday downplayed his party colleague Digvijay Singh's views on leadership change in the party, and added that both Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are the strength of the grand old party.

"Well those are his views. Congress is a democratic organization. Congress has always taken a considered and collective view in the interest of the country and in the interest of the Indian National Congress to uphold its ideals and principles," he told ANI here.

Describing Sonia Gandhi as the source of inspiration for countless party workers in the country, Sharma said: "Smt. Sonia Gandhi is our president and also a source of inspiration; she is a guide to Congressmen and women across the country."

"Rahul Gandhi is our elected vice-president and definitely he mobilizes the youth, he is the future. Both give us strength and whatever steps have to be taken, those are taken by the collective wisdom of the leadership of the Congress," he added.

Digvijay had earlier said that Rahul Gandhi should take full charge of the Congress party.

"It is a general feeling within Congress that the party has always encouraged younger workers. And, therefore, it's time for Rahul Gandhi to take charge. However, the timing should be left for him to decide," he said.

Digvijay Singh's comment comes at a time when the Congress is gradually losing its strength as reflected in the elections.