Lok Sabha / Congress to not send spokespersons to TV debates for a month

The Congress party on Thursday announced its decision not to send spokespersons and media panelists to take part in television debates.

“@INCIndia has decided to not send spokespersons on television debates for a month,” tweeted Congress communication chief Randeep Surjewala.

“All media channels/editors are requested to not place Congress representatives on their shows,” he added.

Mr. Surjewala didn’t give any reason why the Congress took this decision. Last Saturday, Congress president Rahul Gandhi had informed the Congress Working Committee (CWC) about his decision to step down. Though the CWC had unanimously rejected the offer, he is believed to be firm on resigning as the party chief.

He is learnt to have told senior leaders to look for his replacement within a specific time frame. However, Mr. Gandhi has expressed his willingness to accept any other responsibility that the party assigns to him.

On June 1, the Congress Parliamentary Party will meet with its newly elected MPs where there could be clarity regarding Mr. Gandhi’s role. The outgoing CPP was headed by his mother, Sonia Gandhi.