Rahul Gandhi needs to be aggressive, says former CM

Congress’ vice-president Rahul Gandhi needs to adopt an aggressive stand against the BJP and speak at length over important issues — including why the Congress opposes several bills of the government — in Parliament to improve his credibility, said former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan.

Stating that Mr Gandhi has come a long way after his party's defeat in the Lok Sabha polls of 2014, Mr Chavan said the Congress vice-president needs to increase his aggressiveness to corner the BJP-led government in Parliament.

Mr Chavan said that Mr Gandhi, apart from speaking more in Parliament, needs to focus on his body language to improve his credibility among the masses. “An effective use of the Parliament will improve his credibility. Along with this, he needs to focus on his body language as well which can instill the party's ideas in the minds of people,\" he said.

“How do you work for people when you are not in power You cannot simply call the Prime Minister and request him to reconsider a decision that may not be favourable among the masses. In such a scenario, the only option an Opposition leader has is Parliament,” Mr Chavan said.

“Since both the Houses of Parliament are broadcast live, Rahulji needs to speak at length over issues. A one-liner does not always work. He should continuously speak for 45 minutes to an hour,\" he added.

Mr Chavan said that Mr Gandhi would eventually be known for his thoughts and ideas when he puts them forward in Parliament and that an explanation over the Congress’ Opposition over certain issues will connect him directly to the people.

“While Soniaji prefers to meticulously plan her rally speeches, as she is not very comfortable in Hindi, Rahulji tends to take it a little light because he is well-versed with the language. This, at times, proves to be a lacuna which can be changed,” he said.

He added that people now tend to watch serious live debates of Parliament and that Mr Gandhi needs to ensure that people understand the reasons behind the Congress party’s stand on various issues.