Congress President Mallikarjuna Kharge is anticipated to establish a fresh lineup in the imminent future, with a potential shift in power dynamics within the party structure. Speculations suggest that the Udaipur declaration might not be fully executed, as evidenced by the formation of committees across various districts.
The forthcoming restructuring will ensure symbolic representation for women and the backward class, maintaining the party’s traditional approach. Kharge is set to instate three national-level committees, with the Election Management Committee expected to become the most influential body. The head of this committee could potentially overshadow the role of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary, wielding significant authority over organisational matters and election-related decisions. Importantly, this committee will report directly to the party president.
In the midst of these potential changes, there have been murmurs about Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s hesitation to continue in her current position as general secretary. Furthermore, she reportedly wishes to step down from her Uttar Pradesh charge. Consequently, the leadership faces the complex task of accommodating Priyanka, with the roles of vice president or working president deemed suitable. Priyanka’s possible appointments also include heading the Election Management Committee, given her active involvement in devising election strategies that have previously succeeded in Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka.
Presently, Priyanka is concentrating her efforts on Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana, which suggests the party’s intentions to bolster her role. While former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi will lead the fight against BJP at a national level, Priyanka is expected to fortify the party’s presence at the state level. Kharge has held discussions regarding Priyanka’s future role, with Madhya Pradesh being a potential responsibility. Decisions regarding the post of general secretary in charge of the organisation are still pending, with KC Venugopal, a possible vice president alongside Priyanka, and a Hindi-speaking leader tipped for the general secretary position.
The sought-after roles of general secretary and Election Campaign Committee chief have caught the attention of Randeep Singh Surjewala, currently overseeing Karnataka. These positions are anticipated to hold substantial significance akin to the 35-member Congress Working Committee (CWC). The restructuring will also witness the inauguration of two new departments – the Public Insight Department and National Training Institute.
Finally, leaders from Rajasthan, Jitendra Singh Bhanwar and Sachin Pilot, are rumoured to take charge of Uttar Pradesh, while Harish Chaudhary and Raghu Sharma might be relieved of their current responsibilities. Kharge’s vision for his new team is a balanced blend of youth and seasoned leaders.
