Congress leaders close to the family are not surprised. Between a reticent Rahul and a confident Priyanka, they have always seen the sister as more inclined to public life. Rahul, meanwhile, is carving out a corporate career in Britain. Priyanka's political plans, however, will hinge on the Vadra family she recently married into. Her in-laws, say family friends, are not too keen on her plunging into active politics.
Security too is a major concern.
Priyanka, says an intelligence officer, has a higher threat perception than even Sonia. The SPG is not keen on the two of them taking the stage together on too many occasions. Meanwhile, Priyanka is happy projecting herself as a vote catcher, as was apparent in Sriperumbudur. And as Sonia's campaign assistant. According to people close to 10 Janpath, she is Sonia's closest adviser, helping her with her speeches, her clothes, the posters and even the private photo session that was organised at the house.