Sultanpur (UP): Making his electoral debut, Rahul Gandhi today (Apr 5, 2004) filed his nomination papers from Amethi Lok Sabha constituency, which had in the past elected his father, mother and uncle.

Gandhi, son of late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, was flanked by his mother Sonia Gandhi, sister Priyanka and brother-in-law Robert Vadra when he handed over the papers to the returning officer for contesting the elections.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) president Jagadambika Pal, Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader Pramod Tiwari, Capt Satish Sharma and senior leader Mohsina Kidwai were among the Congress leaders present when Rahul filed the papers.

The constituency had elected late Sanjay Gandhi in 1980, Rajiv Gandhi in a subsequent byelection following death of Sanjay and in 1989 and his mother Sonia Gandhi in 1999.

Sonia was at hand to help her son complete the process, as a carnival atmosphere prevailed in the town to herald Rahul's entry into active politics.