Lucknow: The Indian National Congress has announced that it will contest the Uttar Pradesh Panchayat elections in 2026 independently, fielding candidates on all seats. The decision, party leaders say, is aimed at strengthening the organisation at the grassroots level and preparing for the 2027 Assembly elections.
According to party sources, the move is not expected to adversely impact Congress’s relationship with the Samajwadi Party (SP). Sources indicated that a model similar to Maharashtra’s Maha Vikas Aghadi—where alliance partners contest certain elections separately—could be adopted in Uttar Pradesh as well.
The Congress leadership believes that contesting the panchayat elections on its own will help expand its support base in district panchayats and municipal bodies, while also reinforcing the party organisation at the local level. Party insiders said that candidates who perform well in the panchayat polls may be considered for tickets in the 2027 Assembly elections.
Confirming the decision, UP Congress President Ajay Rai said the party would contest the 2026 panchayat elections independently and assess the performance of its workers through the results. “Based on the outcome of the panchayat elections, deserving workers will be given opportunities in the upcoming Assembly elections,” Rai said.
On the issue of alliances, Rai added that any decision would be taken by the national leadership, while the state unit is currently preparing for all 403 Assembly constituencies. Notably, the Congress had contested 399 seats in the 2022 Assembly elections, securing only two seats.
By opting to go solo in the panchayat elections, the Congress aims to evaluate its organisational strength, revive its cadre base, and gauge its electoral prospects ahead of the crucial 2027 Assembly polls.
