Not Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi Was Nitish Kumar's First Choice As INDIA Chairperson: Reports

In the run to take on Narendra Modi-led BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024, Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) leaders met online to discuss the road map and seat-sharing plan. According to the reports, before Mallikarjun Kharge's name, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had proposed Rahul Gandhi's name for chairmanship, which was refuted by the Congress MP.

Rahul Gandhi said was has to work at the grassroots level and lead the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra slated from January 14 from Manipur to Maharashtra.

The reports added, when Nitish's own name was proposed for the covernor's position, Bihar CM passed the buck to Lalu Prasad Yadav saying he would be a better choice because he is a more senior leader.

Later, Rahul Gandhi proposed Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's name, who comes with a bag full of experience, for the top job. Reports added that Rahul Gandhi's call was endorsed by Sonia Gandhi.

"The proposal was backed by several other parties and Mr Kharge's name is nearly finalized for the post," said a source.