Cong Brands Rahul 'Cool PM'; BJP Slams LoP 'Desperation' |RaGa 'Cool PM' Sans Mandate? India Upfront

Published 18 June 2026 · politics

In this episode of India Upfront, anchor Pranesh Roy discusses Congress' latest attempt to recast Rahul Gandhi's political image, with supporters projecting him as a

In this episode of India Upfront, anchor Pranesh Roy discusses Congress' latest attempt to recast Rahul Gandhi's political image, with supporters projecting him as a 'Cool PM' capable of connecting with India's younger generation. From the 'Jannayak' narrative to a renewed focus on youth outreach and student issues, the Congress appears to be crafting a fresh political identity around Rahul Gandhi. Critics, however, argue that the campaign is less about leadership credentials and more about image management ahead of future electoral battles. The debate has intensified amid Rahul Gandhi's engagement with issues such as NEET and student concerns, with the BJP accusing Congress of using public grievances as part of a broader political relaunch strategy.

The ruling party has labelled the effort an act of political desperation, while Congress insists it is responding to genuine concerns affecting India's youth. Watch the full discussion to know more. Connect with Pranesh On Times Now - Times Now News channel examines news with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the latest news and breaking news of the day. Times Network houses upscale television channels. Times Network takes the lead with its ground-breaking innovation and disruption of a new content category. The Times Network channels, which have a global footprint in 100 countries, inform, entertain, and engage viewers of all ages with fascinating and intriguing content, news, and information.

Check out our website Times Now News App Subscribe to our other network channels Times Now Navbharat Zoom Mirror Now ET Now TN+ Chapters 0:00 Introduction: Welcoming Rahul Gandhi and Political Context 0:26 Understanding the BJP and RSS: A Broader Fight 1:18 What Does It Take to Become Prime Minister? 1:46 The Role of Credibility and Leadership in Politics 2:40 Critique of Congress's Relaunch Strategy for Rahul Gandhi 3:09 Defining Leadership: Is Rahul Gandhi 'Cool'? 4:05 The Need for a New Definition of Leadership in India 4:58 Opening the Discussion: Panel Introductions 5:40 Sanju Verma's Perspective on Rahul Gandhi's Leadership 7:04 Analyzing Election Results:

BJP vs. Congress 8:27 The Importance of Ideology in Political Leadership 9:26 Defining a 'Cool PM': Perspectives from the Panel 10:33 Debate on Political Ambitions: Rahul Gandhi vs. Akhilesh Yadav 11:30 Youth Engagement: The Need for Commitment in Leadership 12:42 Criticism of Government's Handling of Education Issues 14:00 The Impact of Paper Leaks on Students' Lives 15:39 Aam Aadmi Party's View on Congress's Position 16:49 Congress's Response to Education System Failures 18:28 The Problem of Trust in Rahul Gandhi's Leadership 20:16 The Challenges of Being a Political Dynast 21:04 Conclusion: The Future of Rahul Gandhi's Political Journey 22:41 Final Thoughts: Accountability and Political Responsibility