Acharya Pramod Krishnam, a former Congress leader recently expelled from the party, has stirred a controversy by alleging disrespect towards Priyanka Gandhi Vadra within the Congress ranks. His remarks, coupled with his expulsion, have sparked debates over party dynamics and leadership roles.
The Allegation of Disrespect
Krishnam’s primary assertion revolves around the perceived disregard for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s role within the Congress party. He questions why Priyanka Gandhi isn’t actively participating in Rahul Gandhi’s nationwide yatra. According to Krishnam, Priyanka Gandhi’s appointment as general secretary lacked substantive responsibilities, a departure from the party’s historical norms, which allegedly left her dissatisfied.
Leadership Dynamics in Congress
Krishnam further criticizes the leadership, alleging that figures like Sachin Pilot have also faced disrespect within the party. He paints a picture of a leadership vacuum where decisions seem to be influenced by forces beyond the party president, whom he describes as a mere “rubber stamp.”
Krishnam’s Expulsion and Allegations
Krishnam’s expulsion from the Congress came shortly after he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and extended an invitation to him for an upcoming event. This expulsion, Krishnam claims, stems from his outspokenness against the party’s decisions, particularly its stance on issues like the abrogation of Article 370.
Standing with Prime Minister Modi
Expressing gratitude for his expulsion, Krishnam declared his allegiance to Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing his commitment to stand by him “all my life.” This move underscores Krishnam’s disillusionment with the Congress party’s ideology and leadership.
Krishnam’s criticism extends to opposition leaders who skipped the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, terming it “unfortunate” and emphasizing the significance of the event in Indian ethos.
The BJP’s Response
BJP’s national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala attributes Krishnam’s expulsion to his defense of Priyanka Vadra, suggesting a rift within the Congress regarding her role and influence.
Congress’s Justification for Expulsion
The Congress party, in its statement, cited Krishnam’s indiscipline and repeated public statements against the party as grounds for his expulsion, notably referencing his attendance at the Ram Temple ceremony despite party leadership’s decision against it.
Krishnam’s Reaction to Expulsion
Krishnam, while welcoming his expulsion, draws parallels with Lord Rama’s exile, suggesting a symbolic association with the epic narrative. He expresses contentment with the party’s decision, indicating a divergence from its ideology.
Acharya Pramod Krishnam’s expulsion from the Congress and his subsequent revelations underscore underlying tensions within the party’s leadership and ideology. The episode not only highlights internal dissent but also raises questions about the role of prominent leaders like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra within the Congress hierarchy. As political dynamics continue to evolve, such incidents serve as markers of the shifting landscape within India’s political sphere.