Cong president: Deora proposes Pilot or Scindia for top job

Mumbai Congress chief Milind Deora on Sunday proposed the names of Sachin Pilot and Jyotiraditya Scindia for the post of party's national president.

Deora told PTI he agreed with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh that the new Congress president should be young, capable and possess electoral, administrative and organisational experience, and a pan India appeal.

"In my view, Sachin Pilot and Jyotiraditya Scindia have all these qualities and can provide strength to the organisation and vigour to the opposition space," he said.

He added that he was "unequivocally ruling myself out" adding that "I know my strengths and capabilities and I am willing to work with anyone in the best interest of our party".

Deora said Pilot or Scindia should be made interim president at least, and be publicly backed by the Gandhi family.

"Unless of course, the Gandhi family disagrees with my assessment," he added.

To a query on what if the party decided on someone other than the two, he said, "If the party collectively decides on someone else, I will respect its wisdom. But I will be surprised if the party or public disagrees with my assessment."
Speaking about the upcoming assembly polls in some states, including Maharashtra, Deora said, "We have crucial elections coming up in October and further delay can impact our prospects adversely."
On general secretary Priyanka Gandhi's possible candidature for the top job, Deora said, "Priyanka Gandhi is exceptionally talented. It is the family's decision to not be involved with the office of the Congress president. We must respect this and move on."