The text of the statement to the Congress Parliamentary Party by the Congress president Sonia Gandhi onWednesday, May 19, 2004
When I spoke to the Congress Parliamentary Party yesterday, I expected that there would be some disappointmentand some sadness. But I have been totally overwhelmed by the outpouring of emotion from nearly every corner ofour country. And I have been humbled by the love and affection that has been so spontaneously expressed.
To all of you who are upset or disappointed, I have this to say: I am not going anywhere. I am still very muchin politics. I will continue as Congress president and chairperson, Congress Party in Parliament for as longas you want me to. I am one of you. And nothing will ever change that.
I entered politics out of a sense of duty and commitment. My family has always treated politics as part of acrusade to create a better India. Indiraji and Rajivji made the supreme sacrifice for our nation. Thereexamples inspired us all and speaking for myself, I know that I derive my strength from their courage. Nomatter how much adversity I have faced, it is nothing compared to what they had to go through. Today, it istheir strength and their inspiration that guide me and the Congress party.
I understand your disappointment. But I appeal to you to understand the depth of my sentiment, when I say thatI cannot reverse my decision. We live in times when politics is about power. Let us show the world that forthe Congress party, politics is about values and integrity.
As I said, I am overwhelmed by your love. But now, we must get on with the serious business of undoing thedamage done by the last government and of working to create the India of our dreams.
I urge you to support the Congress prime minister. And I request you to give your full support to the newCabinet. The Congress party is overflowing with talent. Let us give India the government it deserves.
Speaking for myself. I will always be here, working for the party. The Congress is my life. All of you are myfamily. Let us now build the 21st Century India that was Rajivji's vision.