Vadra urges people to keep Priyanka safe (Lead, with Corrections)

Robert Vadra on Monday urged people for safety of Priyanka Gandhi, his wife and Congress General Secretary, saying the political atmosphere is "vindictive and vicious".

His remark came ahead of Priyanka's first road show after she entered active politics nearly a fortnight ago, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday. Congress President Rahul Gandhi and many other senior party leaders also participated in the road show. She was appointed party General Secretary for eastern UP last month.

Vadra took to Facebook to say, "There is a very vindictive and vicious political atmosphere... But I know, it's her duty to serve the people and now we hand her to the people of India. Please keep her safe." He also wished her luck on her political debut.

"My best wishes to you P (Priyanka) on your new journey of working in UP and serving the people of India," Vadra posted the message.

He also praised her for being a "perfect wife and mother".

Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) continues to be hot on Vadra's heels. Last week, Vadra was questioned by the ED for over 24 hours on three days -- Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday -- in a money laundering case.

The ED is scheduled to question him again on Tuesday in Jaipur in connection with another money laundering case involving a Bikaner land deal.

On January 21, Vadra was directed by the Rajasthan High Court to appear before the ED on February 12 along with his mother Maureen Vadra, also a partner in the Skylight Hospitality LLP.

Vadra was granted protection from arrest till February 16 by a Delhi Court, which was hearing anticipatory bail plea filed by him, on February 2.

--IANS

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