Make Rahul Leader of Lok Sabha, 10 MPs tell Sonia

Pushing for an active role for Rahul Gandhi in Parliament, 10 Congress Members of Parliament have written to party chief Sonia Gandhi, suggesting that he be appointed as the Leader of the Lok Sabha.

In their joint letter, the Lok Sabha MPs have said that as Leader of the House, Rahul would be able to speak "dynamically" on issues concerning the masses and inspire fellow Parliamentarians to follow his example, willingly and cheerfully.

"We think it is the need of the hour that Rahul should play a larger and proactive role in Parliament as the party is facing many challenges inside and outside Parliament," the letter said.

The MPs felt that Rahul would be able to strike a rapport with the Opposition and allies in a more effective manner.

"There indeed are many leaders, but our country, with nearly 50 per cent youth population, demands a young and dynamic leader. And over these years, Rahul has emerged as the most accepted youth leader in this country. He can attract youth and common masses, which will pave the way for better results for our party," they said.

They also said Gandhi's active role in Parliament would create a "sense of confidence" among the countrymen.

"This way, we feel that he would inspire fellow Parliamentarians to follow his example, willingly and cheerfully," the letter stated.

The post of Leader of the House fell vacant after Pranab Mukherjee was nominated by United Progressive Alliance as its Presidential candidate.