Rahul to launch Priyanka, Jyotiraditya in Lucknow roadshow

LUCKNOW: In her first trip to the state after being appointed Congress general secretary and in charge of east UP, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will arrive in the state capital on Monday. Priyanka would be accompanied by Congress president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary and west UP in charge Jyotiraditya Scindia.

While Rahul would return in the night, Priyanka and Scindia would stay till February 14.

“They will hold strategy meetings with state leaders and workers at state headquarters,” stated Congress leader K C Venugopal.

UP Congress vice president (organisation), RP Tripathi said that hectic preparations are on for Priyanka’s visit and her meetings. “The two general secretaries would hold one-to-one meetings with leaders, workers and probable candidates,” he said.

UP Congress president Raj Babbar would be reaching Lucknow on Friday to review preparations for Priyanka’s welcome and schedule. The party has planned a grand roadshow for her. Party workers would welcome Priyanka, Rahul and Scindia at 24 spots till they reach the party office at Mall Avenue. The route map has been submitted to Lucknow administration for traffic and security arrangements. The three leaders would stop at GPO Park to offer floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. They will also pay tributes at Rajiv Gandhi’s statue outside the party office.

Congress leaders and workers are both happy and anxious on her arrival. “She is a tough task master who doesn’t waste time with people who cannot deliver. As a result, while the rusted work force is nervous, the hard working are excited as they foresee an opportunity,” said a senior leader.

“No AICC in charge for UP has stayed so long, the last one being Digvijay Singh in 2012. We have seen Priyanka work in Congress plenary sessions. One has to be on the toes to match her energy,” said Zeeshan Haider of UPCC media team.

“The announcement of her arrival itself has brought focus back on Congress, imagine what will happen when she starts working,” spokesperson Anshu Awasthi said.

Sources said that Priyanka would operate from a renovated chamber built on the first floor of party office. The adjacent room has been reserved for her staff.