BJP vs BJP club poll sees rare cross-party moment as Rudy wins key post with opposition support
A Rare Political Gesture Caught on Camera
In a striking moment captured on video inside Parliament, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi congratulated BJP leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy on his recent victory in the Constitution Club of India elections. Referring to the brief interaction as an “uncommon handshake,” Gandhi’s gesture stood out amid ongoing political tensions in the House.
What Happened?
Just before the day’s session began, Gandhi spotted Rudy walking by and paused to greet him. Turning to the media, he quipped:
“An uncommon handshake between Congress and BJP. Congratulations, by the way.”
Rudy, visibly smiling, replied with a courteous “Thanks.”
Background: Constitution Club Election
Rajiv Pratap Rudy, a six-time MP and former Union Minister, was re-elected as Secretary (Administration) of the Constitution Club, defeating fellow BJP MP Sanjeev Balyan. The contest became notable not just for the BJP-vs-BJP dynamic, but also for the surprising support Rudy received from Opposition MPs.
Key Highlights:
- Total votes cast: 707 out of 1,295 members
- High-profile voters included:
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah
- BJP President JP Nadda
- Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge
- Sonia Gandhi
- Both BJP leaders emphasized that the poll should not be politicized
Why It Matters
The handshake, though symbolic, represents a rare moment of political civility—especially during a period marked by opposition protests over electoral rolls and rising tensions in Parliament.
In a time when most headlines capture clashes and walkouts, a simple congratulatory gesture between rivals has sparked conversations across political circles and the media.
As debates heat up in Parliament, this “uncommon handshake” between Rahul Gandhi and Rajiv Pratap Rudy offers a brief reminder that across-the-aisle respect is still possible—even if only momentarily.