Not interested in Cong's chief job, Rahul 'has it in him' to lead it: Amarinder

Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Thursday made it clear that he was not interested in leaving Punjab for national politics and batted for Rahul Gandhi to lead the Congress party and revive its glory.

Speaking at a conclave to mark the third anniversary of his government, the chief minister said the choice of the next leadership rested with the Congress Working Committee and everyone wanted the 130-year-old party to revive and regain its lost glory and ground.

"Rahul Gandhi definitely has it in him to steer the party as its leader, though at the moment he seems to be insistent about not taking over the party reins," said Amarinder.

Underscoring the need for a new leadership to emerge,Singh said it was not fair to further push Sonia Gandhi, who had been keeping unwell.

"Having worked closely with Sonia for several years, I found her to be a good leader who believes in the modern concept of management and giving a person a job and backing him/her to the hilt, and continue the backing if the job is well done or else push him/her out," said the chief minister.

With 70 per cent of India's population comprising the youth, the need for younger leadership could not be ignored and Rahul was equipped to take up the role, he said.

"The victory and defeat was part of politics and Rahul should not allow one defeat (2019 LS polls) to hold him back," he said