Smriti Irani Declares She's Stopped Venting Criticism Against Rahul Gandhi — "That's Not My Job Anymore"

 In a political statement that has sparked widespread conversation, senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Smriti Irani has publicly declared that she will no longer be criticizing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saying bluntly: “That’s not my job anymore.” The unexpected comment marks a notable change in tone from Irani, who for years was seen to be one of Rahul Gandhi’s most vocal critics.

A History of Political Rivalry

Smriti Irani’s political journey has been closely tied to her competition with Rahul Gandhi, especially since her dramatic win over him in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the Amethi constituency — a seat held by the Gandhi family for decades. Her victory was more than symbolic; it signalled a dent in Congress’s political legacy and a personal blow to Rahul Gandhi’s stature to be a national leader.

After that victory, Irani emerged to be the leading face of the BJP's combative approach against the Congress party and became a frequent opponent of Rahul Gandhi both Parliament and in the public sphere. Her pointed comebacks and no-holds-barred criticism routinely made the headlines and established her to be an indefatigable campaigner against the Gandhi heir.

The Sudden Shift

However, during a recent interaction with the media, when asked about Rahul Gandhi’s most recent comments or political moves, Smriti Irani responded, “I’m no longer in that role. Criticizing Rahul Gandhi is not my job anymore.” The statement came without much elaboration, but it was enough to raise eyebrows and spark speculation across political circles.

Is Irani hinting at a change in political direction? Or is this just a ploy to move beyond personality politics? Until now, the answers are not known.

A Possible Strategy?

Some Political experts advise that Irani’s decision to step away from direct attacks on Rahul Gandhi could be a calculated move. With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections now behind us and the BJP working to broaden its appeal between a wider may be less political mileage in continuing a personalized attack on the Congress leader.

Others are convinced that the move could be a reflection of some change the BJP itself. As new roles are assigned and priorities change, Irani may be gearing up for a new level in her political career — one where she spends more time on governance or connection to the party, rather than rhetorical belligerence.

There is speculatively. that She may have been encouraged to present a more statesmanlike image, especially to be the BJP desires to project itself to be a mature, governing force in politics and not one based on confrontational politics.

Congress's Response

The Congress party has mainly stayed silent on Irani’s comment, but sources all the way through the party view it to be a subtly acknowledging Rahul Gandhi’s stature has grown. After a strong performance in the 2024 elections and his continued efforts to reshape the Congress narrative, the political the scenery seems to be shifting — even if slowly.

Public Reaction

On social media, reactions were mixed. Some praised Irani for showing political maturity, while others questioned if this was merely a way to avoid answering tough questions about Rahul Gandhi’s increasing popularity and influence.

Whatever The situation could be, Smriti Irani’s statement is notable not just for what it says — but for what It suggests. In India’s ever-dynamic political theatre, even a few words can signal deeper changes in strategy, leadership, and power dynamics.

Smriti Irani's move away from publicly criticizing Rahul Gandhi may be a temporary configuration or the way political leaders decide to cope with their opponents. Whether this is a temporary   or a lasting change is to be seen. What is for sure at the moment is that, in Indian politics, silence can be very telling.