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From Our Own Correspondent: India

India

BBC World Service - From Our Own Correspondent, India

Alan Johnston presents a special essay by  Mark Tully about Sonia Gandhi's hold on power

Alan Johnston introduces a specially extended essay by Mark Tully, looking at the unique position of Sonia Gandhi within Indian politics. How has she commanded such respect - and lasted so long?

Alan Johnston introduces a special essay by Mark Tully, examining Sonia Gandhi's unique position within Indian politics. 

Despite several apparent disadvantages - most notably being a foreigner, staying out of the limelight, and not having any defined constitutional authority - nobody doubts that she is one of the most powerful people on the subcontinent. 

As President of the Congress party, the decisions she takes and the philosophy she chooses shape the lives of millions.

Her recent medical problems - involving a sudden trip to America for an operation - have heightened awareness in India of just how important she is. 

And Mark Tully says that, inevitably, there's now renewed interest in what will happen when she eventually steps away from political life.

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