Sources in the Indian Youth Congress have claimed that more than seven lakh people across the state have registered themselves with the party during the recent 20-day mass enrolment drive.

“It is belief in Rahul Gandhi that has made the youths in the state yearn to be a part of the political proceedings,” said Vijay Inder Singla, Commissioner (Election Commission), Indian Youth Congress.

Rahul held over 30 meetings in 15 districts across Gujarat and interacted with young professionals, fishermen, women and students during his recent visits.

Talking about state youth venturing into politics, Rajesh Brahmbhatt, former president of the Ahmedabad City Youth Congress, said, “Rahul Gandhi is here to empower young people. The objective is to generate fresh and innovative ideas in political machinery of the state.”

On the other hand, Jitu Vaghani, president of the BJP Yuva Morcha, said, “The Congress is khokhli (shallow) and that is why they have brought Rahul Gandhi to cheer up the gloomy face of the party in Gujarat. It is just a publicity stunt. The people of Gujarat still have faith in (Narendra) Modi’s progressive and development-oriented policies.”

After the dissolution of the Gujarat Pradesh Youth Congress last week, fresh elections will be held soon to elect the party representatives, said sources.