Though Congress chief Sonia Gandhi has ruled out premature retirement, cancelling the speculations that she could call it a day in 2016 when she turns 70, but still it is seriously assumed that any possible debacle in the 2014 election may force her to pass on the baton.
In the case of a possible Modi-BJP win, that will deprive Congress from power for may be for a decade and that will be a very big time for waiting.
Moreover Rahul is no more getting younger,so also the Congress leaders are never in the habit of sitting idle for a long time. Without power it will be too difficult to hold the rank and files of Congress worker for several years,and that sign will be visible even after the assembly results in 2013 itself.
Within Congress, Sonia is seen to play the role of the stabiliser and moderator as found in the recent controversy, kicked by Rahul Gandhi's public outburst against the ordinance.It was Sonia, who reached out to prime minister Manmohan Singh, to soothe the frayed nerves.But even though this story may even changes, the moment power is lost (if).
Yes Sonia Gandhi is always seen as the sheet-anchor of UPA and has displayed sensitivity to the needs of allies, a reason why the allies are seen to prefer her in the leadership role. But without Delhi crown seat even that charm will be lost soon.