Reacting to the development, BJP leaders said that Congress' decision of roping in Priyanka Gandhi just months ahead of elections proves that Rahul Gandhi has failed as party's leaders.
Terming the move as yet another example of dynasty politics, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said: "This proves that Rahul gandhi has failed and that is why Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has been brought to the front."
"This is the difference between BJP and Congress, in Congress family is party, while in BJP party is family," Patra said.
He said it was natural that Congress had to "coronate" somebody from within the family. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has projected the Lok Sabha elections as a battle between "naamdar" (dynasts) and "kaamdar" (those who have worked).
Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani took the occasion to attack Congress President Rahul Gandhi and said “Congress today made official announcement about Rahul Gandhi’s failure.” She said that even Congress party doubts Rahul’s capabilities of leading the party to victory in Lok Sabha elections on his virtues. The party knew Rahul needed a support and now Priyanka Gandhi is that support, she said.
Rahul Gandhi is in his Lok Sabha constituency Amethi on a two-day visit.
Irani had unsuccessfully contested against Gandhi in Amethi during last parliamentary elections. She has however been active in the place despite her defeat, and is expected to take on the Gandhi scion again this year.
J.P.Nadda, who is BJP's UP incharge said: " Priyanka Gandhi officially becomes General Secretary of Congress , but everyone knows how this household company works. It is also first official declaration from Congress that Rahul ji has failed, he should tell what is his view of Parivarwadi soch?"
As per Congress leaders, Priyanka will take charge in the first week of February.
There is an undeniable wave of excitement among Congress party members. Here are the different reactions to Priyanka's entry in the political landscape:
Senior Congress leader Motilal Vohra said on the party’s most awaited announcement: “The responsibility given to Priyanka ji is very important. This will not only have an effect on eastern Uttar Pradesh but also other regions.”
Priyanka’s husband Robert Vadra congratulated her in a Facebook post which read: “Congratulations P... always by your side in every phase of your life. Give it your best.”
Meanwhile, Jyotiraditya Scindia who has been installed as the Priyanka’s counterpart for UP West, said in a tweet: “I am thankful to INC President Rahul Gandhi for showing trust in me. I will work to the best of my capacity to strengthen the party in Western Uttar Pradesh.”
Political strategist Prashant Kishore also reacted to Priyanka's political plunge and congratulated her on Twitter. "One of the most awaited entries in Indian politics is finally here! While people may debate the timing, exact role and position, to me, the real news is that she finally decided to take the plunge! Congratulations and best wishes to Priyanka Gandhi", he said.
Congress leader Rajeev Shukla said: "This will help in revival of Congress not only in Uttar Pradesh but the entire country. She will take charge after Feb 1 once she returns from abroad."