The last-minute decision by the Congress regarding the constituencies of Amethi and Raebareli has brought about a major twist. Contrary to expectations, Rahul Gandhi, who was anticipated to vigorously contest to reclaim Amethi, has been announced as the party's candidate for Raebareli. This seat was recently vacated by his mother Sonia Gandhi when she moved to the Rajya Sabha.

In Amethi, which was won by BJP’s Smriti Irani five years ago, the Congress has put forward Kishori Lal Sharma, a longtime loyalist of the Gandhi family, as its representative. Despite efforts, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra could not be persuaded to contest from Raebareli, a constituency she had nurtured on her mother's behalf for over a decade.

The Congress's decision was disclosed on Friday following weeks of suspense. Following his nomination, Rahul Gandhi is expected to lead a grand roadshow today. Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge, along with senior leaders Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, will also be part of the roadshow.

Immediately after the candidates for these prestigious seats were announced, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra congratulated KL Sharma, expressing confidence in his "loyalty and dedication" that would aid him in securing victory.

However, there are concerns that Rahul Gandhi's switch in constituencies might play into the hands of the BJP, particularly considering Union minister Smriti Irani's 2019 victory in Amethi. She is geared up to defend her seat and has suggested that the Congress's delay stems from apprehension about her impending victory.

In an interview with NDTV earlier in the week, Smriti Irani implied that the Congress leadership is aware of Amethi being a challenging seat for them, citing their delayed candidate announcement as evidence. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's decision to not contest may further unsettle the party, as some Congress leaders fear it could create a negative perception affecting the election outcome nationwide.

Sources suggest that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's reluctance to contest stems from concerns that her victory in Raebareli could bolster BJP's accusations of dynasty politics, with all three family members being in parliament. Sonia Gandhi is already in the Rajya Sabha, and Rahul Gandhi has contested from Kerala's Wayanad.

A victory for Rahul Gandhi in both Raebareli and Wayanad would pose a dilemma for the party, as he would have to vacate one of the seats that equally demand his attention. While Raebareli holds historical significance as a family bastion, Wayanad is a Congress stronghold that secured his Lok Sabha seat when Amethi shifted allegiance. However, resolving this issue is a challenge the Congress will address in due time.