India's reluctant "prince", Rahul Gandhi, takes break from politics


India's Congress party vice president Rahul Gandhi (top C) gestures as he stands a top a vehicle during a road show ahead of state assembly elections in the old quarters of Delhi February 4, 2015.

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Rahul Gandhi, a leader of India's Congress party, is taking a leave of absence from parliament to focus on party work, an official said, setting off speculation of a long-awaited change in the party to revive its fortunes.

Gandhi, the presumed fourth-generation heir of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty, has led the party to a series of electoral defeats since it was handed its worst drubbing in a national election last year at the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Star Festive Promo: Get 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

At Damascus book fair, Islamist titles and Kurdish culture echo big shifts
Norwegian police search homes of ex-PM Jagland in Epstein probe
Venezuelan leader Rodriguez says she was invited to US, NBC reports
Ukrainian arms producers receive first wartime export licences, Kyiv says
Appointment of US envoy in Geneva raises hopes for UN engagement
Two US Navy ships collide, no major injuries, US Southern Command says
Cartel drones become flashpoint between US and Mexico
Syria says it has taken control of al-Tanf base vacated by US troops
French diplomat with Epstein ties denies accusations after government alerts prosecutor
Spain and Portugal on high alert as storms cause more damage

Others Also Read