National
Sonia may not lead delegations abroad
By Javed M. Ansari
NEW DELHI, JAN. 1. The Congress is yet to make up its mind on the Government's invitation asking its leader, Ms. Sonia Gandhi, to lead a delegation abroad as a part of diplomatic offensive.
The invitation was extended during the all-party meeting convened by the Prime Minister, Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee, on Sunday, where Ms. Sonia Gandhi had in principle accepted the Government's suggestion that the Congress participate in the delegations that are likely to travel to some important countries. Party sources point out that on the question of her own participation, Ms. Sonia Gandhi had remained non-committal, and limited herself to saying that the party would get back after consultations.
In all probability, she would not be available to lead any delegation. Congress sources say that despite her eagerness, Ms. Sonia Gandhi has her hands full for the next two months. With elections to Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttranchal and Manipur scheduled for February, she is extremely busy overseeing her party's poll preparations.
The process of shortlisting party candidates for the next month's polls has already started. She will chair meeting of the party's Central Election Committee from tomorrow. Sources said the campaign would be led by Ms. Gandhi and being the main campaigner there is a heavy demand for her to campaign in all the States.
If Ms. Sonia Gandhi is unable to make it, then the party might depute somebody else. The names being mentioned are Dr. Manmohan Singh, Mr. Natwar Singh and Mr. Shivraj Patil. However, as both Dr. Manmohan Singh and Mr. Natwar Singh would also have to campaign in Punjab and parts of U.P., the party would have to juggle their dates if the Government requests their services.
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