Video Editor: Ashutosh Bhardwaj
Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra kicked off her party's campaign for the Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh on Monday, 18 March by offering prayers at the Lette Hanuman temple near Sangam.
During her three-day visit, Priyanka will cover a distance of 100 km by boat in Ganga from Allahabad to Varanasi – the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hopping from one temple to another.
Interacting with the locals in Dumduma Ghat in Prayagraj, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took a jibe at the prime minister’s ‘Main Bhi Chowkidar’ campaign.
“Everywhere I see public is tortured, unhappy and caught in issues. Issues based on religion and castes are raised because ‘vikas’ (development) is not happening. In the upcoming election when you help Congress win and empower Rahul Gandhi you will realise that there will be ‘vikas’.”Priyanka Gandhi, General Secretary, Congress.
Priyanka Gandhi interacted with students of Allahabad University during a calm ride across the Ganga. She shared a picture of young women she met at the Allahabad University.
Gandhi said political transformation in the state was not possible without listening to the voices of the people and sharing in their pain.
“I could have been at home, for years I was sitting at home. Why did I have to step out? I had to step out because the country is in trouble.”Priyanka Gandhi, General Secretary, Congress.
The Congress leader said she would reach out to people through various means of transportation, including waterways, buses, train and 'padayatra' (on foot).
"River Ganga is a symbol of truth and equality. It is also a symbol of our 'Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb' (cross culture). It does not differentiate among people. Gangaji is the lifeline of Uttar Pradesh and with her support I will reach you," Priyanka said.
As part of her campaign tour, Priyanka will also visit Bhadohi and Mirzapur districts.
Polling will be held in seven phases in Uttar Pradesh from 11 April to 19 May. Results will be announced on 23 May.
(With inputs from PTI)
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