NEW DELHI: Post-Bihar voices in Congress grew louder on Wednesday with senior member P Chidambaram joining the ranks of officials critical of the party’s performance in recent state elections and by-elections in other state.
“I am more concerned about the indirect results in Gujarat, MP, UP and Karnataka. These results show that the party either does not have an organizational presence on the ground or it has been considerably weakened,” he said.
The comment is significant, as it echoes the dissident group that, after a brief hiatus following the controversy over its letter in August, has taken advantage of the recent election debacle to rekindle its demand that the leadership recognize that the Party is in decline and consult older people: an implicit criticism of party officials close to Rahul Gandhi – on the way forward. G23 members have held discussions after the Bihar results on the next course of action. The bloc can request a special session of a party committee such as CWC to discuss the organizational change. “When it will explode is the problem now,” said a deputy.
Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, confronted critics saying: “If some leaders think that Congress is not the right party for them, then they can create a new party or join any other party that they consider progressive.” . and according to your interests. But such shameful activities should not be allowed, as they can erode the credibility of Congress. ”
With the process for the election of the AICC president underway, some worry that dissidents may even question the central electoral authority in charge of the process and press for their demands, such as the CWC elections, to be granted in advance. .
In his comments, Chidambaram said: “In Bihar, the RJD-Congress had a chance to win. Why we lost despite being so close to victory is something that needs a comprehensive review. Remember, not long ago the Congress had won. Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand “. He stressed the need for organizational strength on the ground.
The veteran echoed the opinion expressed by some members of the RJD, saying that Congress contested more seats than its capacity in Bihar.
In addition to organizational problems, Congress even saw an internal showdown on RCEP, the mega trade deal, on Tuesday. While attacking the Modi government for choosing not to participate in RCEP, Anand Sharma contradicted the position taken by top congressional officials that the deal will harm India’s interests. Congress had launched a vocal campaign against RCEP last year. Sharma’s opinion clashed with that of former minister Jairam Ramesh, who called the opt-out as a vindication of the congressional position.
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