Newly-anointed Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi has snubbed Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) saying that he has great experience. Since his election in 2004 from Congress' traditional bastion Amethi, Rahul has been in news; be it for party’s debacle in various state assembly elections where he headed party’s campaign or for his suggestion to provide an institutional status for Lokpal.
Even though Congress is tight-lipped over Rahul's projection as party's candidate for Prime Minister in 2014 general election, insiders say his elevation on number two position is quite self explanatory. Rahul after his anointment said together India can be transformed.
During his eight years as an MP and the party general secretary Rahul spoke on various key issues. Here is the summary.
On Poverty
The biggest task facing India was 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 which operates at every level. The prime concern of UPA government would be to eliminate corruption and check siphoning off of public money. UPA government's initiative to deliver two lakh crore rupees directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries of government's welfare scheme under Direct Cash Transfer (DCT) system is just a practical approach towards eliminating corruption for the benefit of the poor people.
On Lokpal
An effective Lokpal is only one element in the legal framework to combat corruption. Lokpal institution alone cannot be a substitute for a comprehensive anti-corruption code. A set of effective laws is required. Make Lokpal 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 them.
On Right to Information Act
The law had brought transparency in the governance and would help in administrative and public life.
On Challenges faced by Congress amidst various scams and electoral debacles
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 was no reason why the party would not be able to overcome the various challenges it faces. It is a great party.
On FDI
The entry of international supermarket chains in India will allow farmers to get better price for their produce. Compare the price of one kg of potatoes and one pack of potato wafers. He pointed out that at present wafer manufacturers were earning a higher profit margin than the farmers who grow potatoes. FDI will change this situation and the farmers will be able to get much better price of their produce.
On Delhi gang-rape
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 and follow the laws of the land. We as a nation must reflect on the events of the days gone by.
