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Sonia Gandhi reveals how she deflected Pranab Mukherjee's PM ambitions

In her newly released memoir, Congress president Sonia Gandhi has disclosed internal dynamics of the UPA government, including how she managed a delicate situation involving former President Pranab Mukherjee's aspirations for the prime ministerial office.

LSN India · 10 November 2026

Sonia Gandhi reveals how she deflected Pranab Mukherjee's PM ambitions

Sonia Gandhi's memoir 'Belonging: A Journey of Love' offers rare insights into the workings of the UPA administration, shedding light on significant political moments that shaped India's governance during the Congress-led coalition rule. The book details various behind-the-scenes episodes, including how Gandhi navigated one of the more sensitive political matters involving senior party figures. According to the memoir, former President Pranab Mukherjee had expressed interest in becoming Prime Minister at some point during the UPA government's tenure. Gandhi's account describes how she tactfully addressed this situation, balancing the aspirations of senior party colleagues while maintaining the stability of the coalition government. The revelation provides readers with a window into the personal and political considerations that influenced key decisions during the UPA era, highlighting the complexities of coalition politics in Indian governance. Gandhi's memoir is expected to generate further discussion on critical junctures in recent Indian political history and the decision-making processes of the Congress party during its period in national government.