Lucknow: The Congress Party is poised for a significant organizational overhaul following electoral defeats in recent assembly elections. This move aligns with the statement made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge at the Congress Working Committee meeting in Belagavi, emphasizing the implementation of the Udaipur Declaration in 2025. The goal is to revamp the party structure to strengthen its voter base, from grassroots polling stations to the national stage.
Key Developments in Organizational Restructuring
- Changes Across Levels: The reorganization will impact the All India Congress Committee (AICC), state units, general secretary/secretary positions, and state in-charges. Sources suggest the process is near completion, with announcements expected by early February.
- Focus on Major States: States such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Haryana are slated for significant changes. Maharashtra, in particular, will witness a top-down restructuring due to the party’s poor performance, including the loss of key figures like Balasaheb Thorat and Prithviraj Chavan.
- District and State Committees Disbanded: In Uttar Pradesh, the state and district committees have been dissolved in preparation for the 2027 elections.
Leadership Changes Under Consideration
- Chhattisgarh and Haryana: AICC General Secretary Kumari Selja, responsible for Chhattisgarh, may be replaced due to criticisms of her election management. Haryana’s dismal performance has also led to calls for leadership changes.
- Communication Division: The party may revamp its communication wing, currently headed by Jairam Ramesh, with additional scrutiny on Supriya Shrinate and Pawan Khera’s roles in media and publicity.
Udaipur Declaration and Leadership Tenure
Kharge reiterated the party’s commitment to the Udaipur Declaration, which limits leaders to a five-year tenure in organizational roles. However, it remains unclear if this policy will affect long-serving leaders like AICC General Secretary (Organization) K C Venugopal, who has held his position for six years.
Upcoming Milestone
On January 15, Sonia Gandhi will inaugurate the Congress Party’s new headquarters at 9A, Kotla Road, Delhi. The event will be attended by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, marking a symbolic step in the party’s renewal process.
This restructuring represents Congress’ efforts to regain its footing in the political landscape by addressing internal inefficiencies and preparing for upcoming electoral challenges.
