A day after formalizing her nomination for the Rajya Sabha, Sonia Gandhi conveyed on Thursday that she would abstain from contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, citing health apprehensions.
In a missive directed to the populace of Rae Bareli, the erstwhile Congress leader extended gratitude for their unwavering support over the years.
Reflecting on her longstanding connection with Rae Bareli, where she has represented in the Lok Sabha since 2004, Sonia Gandhi reminisced about the community's embrace during times of personal loss, notably following the demise of her husband, Rajiv Gandhi, and mother-in-law, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The message conveyed reassurance to the electorate, affirming their integral role in the family's journey and expressing confidence in their continued solidarity.
"I have taken the decision not to contest the Lok Sabha elections considering my health and advancing age," she affirmed, underscoring the paramount importance of well-being.
Sonia Gandhi's nomination filing for the Rajya Sabha polls in Rajasthan occurred on Wednesday, alongside the BJP's nomination of its chief, JP Nadda, Union ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and L Murugan, as well as the induction of former chief minister Ashok Chavan.
Joined by her children Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and other Congress stalwarts, Sonia Gandhi completed the nomination formalities in Jaipur.
At the age of 77, Sonia Gandhi is poised to make her maiden entry into the Upper House from Rajasthan, filling the vacancy that will arise in April following the completion of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's Rajya Sabha tenure.
The Congress unveiled a roster of 10 candidates on Wednesday, featuring prominent figures such as party treasurer Ajay Maken, contesting from Karnataka, distinguished advocate Abhishek Singhvi vying for the sole seat in Himachal Pradesh, and Renuka Chowdhury representing Telangana.
