Wion Exclusive | Congress is united, Rahul Gandhi in not a reluctant leader: Ghulam Nabi Azad

Kartikeya Sharma speaks with Opposition leader in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad about Gujarat RS elections, BJP’s strategy, Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, path ahead for Congress and more.

What is the takeaway for Congress after Ahmed Patel won the election?

Truth has won. We had surplus votes in the state. We even had votes from other parties. When the BJP knew that we had numbers, why did they have to nominate a third candidate. It shows that they wanted to steal our numbers. They used everything under the sun to win the election and tried to steal our elected members. But I would like to thank the Election Commission and those who didn’t sway under the pressure of money. The EC kept democracy alive and ensured their credibility survive.

Are you surprised with BJP’s aggressive tactics?

I’m not surprised. I also went through the same experience where BJP tried to lure away MLAs. The difference is that this got discussed during Ahmed Patel’s re-election. They also tried a similar tactic during my elections.

But if you see, the process also shows that India has a divided Opposition.

They try to purchase those who can. BJP has been using such tactics to win elections. Those who cannot be …read more