Rahul extends leave yet again, likely to be back around March 20

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi has extended his leave yet again, with reports saying that he won’t be back till the end of March.

Rahul’s absence will be prominent on Friday when the Congress begins its padyatra from Bhatta Parsaul in Uttar Pradesh against the new land acquisition law.

It was Rahul, who had spearheaded an agitation in 2011 from the same village against forcible land acquisition of farmers which led to the culmination of the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.

Rahul, who had gone on a sabbatical to reflect on party’s future course and recent events just before the commencement of the Budget Session on February 23, is yet to return from leave and indications are that he may not be back till the first part of the session concludes on March 20.

His leave period as such may end up being one month-long.

The foot march from Bhatta Parsaul to Parliament is being led by the youth and other wings of Congress with various farmers organisations against the new law.

Meanwhile, the party speaking about Rahul’s absence, said, “We would urge friends of media not to believe in canards being spread by vested interests. Respect the privacy of Gandhi and his decision to introspect for strengthening the Congress party by taking a regular leave from Congress president and leadership.

As and when we have information, we will let you know,” party spokesperson and in-charge of communication department Randip Surjewala said.