With no action forthcoming against party workers who allegedly misbehaved with her, Congress’ national spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi quit the party and joined the Shiv Sena in the presence of party President Uddhav Thackeray on Friday.
She left the Congress over the reinstatement of party workers who had allegedly misbehaved with her. Chaturvedi sent her resignation to party President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday, saying she performed her duties, and gave her 100 per cent as a party. She and her family had faced personal threats, slander and abuse.
On Wednesday, she tweeted: “Deeply saddened that lumpen goons get preference over those who have given their sweat and blood.”
Chaturvedi also added that she had faced brickbats and abuse across the board for the party, but those who threatened her within the party were getting away without even a rap on their knuckles, which is unfortunate.
Addressing the media at the residence of the Sena President, Chaturvedi said she had quit the Congress for self-pride. The Congress promotes safety, dignity and empowerment of women but it does get reflected in actions of some of its members, she said.
PTI reports that in New Delhi, addressing a press conference here, Congress chief spokesperson Surjewala said: “Every time a party member leaves, it’s a matter of pain for us. People look for career progression. We wish all of them well, including Priyanka Chaturvedi. I must frankly and on record concede, yes, it’s a reflection on my leadership.”
Shiv Sena welcomes her
Thackeray, welcoming Chaturvedi into the party, said the party would assign her a crucial responsibility per her capability to work not only in Mumbai but across the country.
On being questioned by the media about her political ambitions and being denied a ticket from Mumbai North-West or Mumbai-North Parliamentary constituency, Chaturvedi said she was hopeful of the ticket but was not upset or bitter with the Congress for not giving it to her.