A spontaneous interaction between Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari became a highlight in Parliament on Thursday. The exchange, which began during the Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, led to an immediate meeting in the minister's chamber, blending serious policy discussion with informal camaraderie.
Question Hour Sparks Immediate Action
During the session, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra raised a critical issue concerning public safety. She pointed to the recurring landslides on the Chandigarh-Shimla highway, highlighting that the existing low retaining walls were insufficient to prevent slope collapses. Demonstrating a proactive approach, she also sought an appointment with Minister Gadkari to discuss various highway-related matters affecting her constituency, Wayanad.
In a prompt and welcoming response, Gadkari stated that his doors were always open for MPs and that no formal appointment was necessary to meet him. This immediate openness set the stage for the subsequent engagement.
Chamber Meeting: Work, Assurance, and Laughter
The meeting in Nitin Gadkari's chamber was substantive. Priyanka Gandhi discussed six specific road projects that pass through Kerala, some of which fall under the purview of the Central government. Minister Gadkari gave a patient hearing and assured her that he would look into the matters she raised.
The discussion also took a personal and humorous turn. Eyewitnesses noted that Gadkari reminded Priyanka that her brother and fellow Congress MP, Rahul Gandhi, had previously met him regarding roads in his own constituency. With a smile, the minister quipped in Hindi, "Bhai ka kaam kar diya, behen ka nahin karunga toh aap bolenge ki nahi kiya (You'll complain that I addressed your brother's concerns but not yours)." The remark elicited laughter from Priyanka Gandhi and others present in the room.
An Informal Touch: Food and Fellowship
Adding a uniquely informal flavor to the official meeting, Gadkari offered Priyanka Gandhi a rice dish that he had prepared himself after watching tutorials on YouTube. The gesture underscored the cordial nature of their interaction. Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda, who was also present, was seen tasting the rice balls while conversing with the minister.
This episode in Parliament showcased a blend of direct grievance redressal, inter-party dialogue, and personal rapport. While Priyanka Gandhi effectively leveraged the parliamentary forum to flag urgent infrastructure and safety issues for her constituents, Minister Gadkari's responsive and accessible stance facilitated an on-the-spot discussion, promising follow-up action on the concerns raised.
