Congress leaders are suggesting that party vice-president Rahul Gandhi undertake “padyatras” in Uttar Pradesh and focus on Assam and Kerala, which are going to hold Assembly polls in the next few mont
Congress leaders are suggesting that party vice-president Rahul Gandhi undertake “padyatras” in Uttar Pradesh and focus on Assam and Kerala, which are going to hold Assembly polls in the next few months.
Mr Gandhi, who will be travelling to Europe for a “few days”, has to ensure the Congress retains power in Kerala and Assam. While Kerala is expected to go to polls in April, the Assam elections could be held in May. The party is divided in factions in both states.
If the party is fighting the Kerala elections under the banner of the UDF, it has been giving conflicting signals on whether to have a pre-poll alliance with the All-India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) led by Badruddin Ajmal because Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi is said to be against it fearing that it will lead to communal polarisation that will help the BJP and its allies. Another reason for his opposition is that the Congress’ support base among the minorities could receive a dent as the minorities could shift to the AIUDF.
While the Assam Congress has already received a setback after Mr Himanta Biswa Sarma quit the party with his supporters, the Congress in Kerala has been a divided house. A section in the Kerala Congress is pressing for a change of guard in the PCC, suggesting that its chief, V.M. Sudheeran, may not be able to deliver. The high command has to bring a new face without delay, they say.
However, Congress sources on Monday said the issue of pre-poll alliances, sharing of seats and constituting screening committees for selection of candidates could be discussed next month. “We know time is short but we have been working on strategies,” they said.
The coming election in Uttar Pradesh will be crucial for the Congress despite the fact that it has not been a player there since 1989. “Rahulji should undertake padyatras in each district in the next year, this will help revive the Congress,” they said.
According to them, the BSP, led by Ms Mayawati, will get mileage from the incumbency against the ruling Samajwadi Party. She will field candidates from the minorities, OBC and brahmin communities. On the other hand, the BJP could play the polarisation card on communal lines. In such a situation, the Congress has to retain its support base at any cost.
Meanwhile, Mr Gandhi took to Twitter to announce his foreign trip. “I will be travelling to Europe for a few days. A very happy New Year to everyone,” he said. “Hope the new year brings much joy and happiness to you and everyone close to you!” he tweeted. Mr Gandhi had been out of the country during New Year on some occasions in the past as well.
