Congress leaders rally at Sonia Gandhi’s residence for key meet to discuss strategy for Budget Session

Senior Congress leaders on Tuesday rallied at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s residence to take part in the meeting of Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group. During the meeting, the Congress leaders are expected to discuss the party’s strategy for the Budget Session of Parliament.

Those who arrived at the Congress leader’s residence were - AK Antony, Jairam Ramesh, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Anand Sharma, P Chidambaram, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and K Suresh. The Congress has 54 members in the Lok Sabha.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said, "Ghulam Nabi Azad ji briefed everyone about the discussions that took place in the all-party meeting. We discussed key issues and will also hold meetings with Opposition parties. No discussions on name of Leader of Opposition."

However, it was not known if Congress president Rahul Gandhi was also part of the meeting held to chalk out party’s strategy for the Budget Session of Parliament. Following the Congress’ humiliating defeat in the recent Lok Sabha elections, Rahul Gandhi had offered to quit as party chief.

Although Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party have been tight-lipped about the former’s decision, reports suggested that the party is looking for an alternative. Since the election results, Rahul Gandhi is keeping a low profile and making lesser appearances in the media.

Earlier on Monday, Rahul Gandhi, who missed the morning session of Parliament on the first day of the 17th Lok Sabha, on Monday took oath as Member of Parliament from Kerala’s Wayanad.