The Future of Indian National Congress: Advocating for Renewal

The political trajectory of the Indian National Congress (INC) has been marked by its declining popularity and internal strife. The question of who will lead the INC in the near future has sparked considerable debate, particularly with regard to Ashok Gehlot. As Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Gehlot faces the challenge of maintaining his political influence while evaluating the potential impact of stepping down to become the President of the INC. This article explores the implications of Gehlot potentially becoming the INC president and the need for party rejuvenation.

The Decline of Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress, once a powerful force in Indian politics, is currently facing significant challenges. The party's downward trajectory is not only due to internal disagreements but also because of a lack of focus on party work among its leaders. Current figures such as Ashok Gehlot, Bhupendra Singh Hooda, and others are more preoccupied with their personal ambitions than the rejuvenation of the party. With the INC's decline showing no signs of abating, the role of party president carries less prestige than it did in the past.

Leadership Dynamics and Party Rejuvenation

Despite the challenges, theINC has witnessed some positive developments. For instance, former Finance Minister Sachin Pilot, who served in Rajasthan, has made some significant contributions to the party's resurgence. However, the prevailing notion among veterans is that Bharat Jodo Yatra has revived the party's vitality, and therefore, Rahul Gandhi should be made the party president. Rahul Gandhi, despite his lack of political acumen, may be the right leader to steer the party back to its former glory.

The ability to run the party effectively requires a certain level of political cunning and strategic acumen, which both Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi currently lack. The writ of the INC's president is not as powerful as it once was, but the party still has some strength in certain northern states. However, the national level prospects remain bleak, and the party needs to focus on state-level governance to maintain any semblance of relevance.

Implications of Ashok Gehlot Becoming INC President

If Ashok Gehlot were to leave his post as Chief Minister of Rajasthan and assume the role of INC president, it would present a unique situation. However, such a shift might not be without consequences. The party may prefer to keep Sachin Pilot in his current position as Chief Minister of Rajasthan, as this could affect his own aspirations for the CM post. A premature transition could also lead to a split within the party, similar to the one that occurred in Madhya Pradesh during the previous election.

Currently, Ashok Gehlot is a puppet of Priyanka Gandhi and Robert Vadra. Vadra, at 54, is expected to enter politics and will require support from Gehlot to organize and streamline the party's factions. Vadra's ambition and the need for revival could make Gehlot a more compliant leader. While this arrangement might prolong Gehlot's tenure as INC president until 2029, more youthful and dynamic figures like Milan Dey or Sachin Pilot are better equipped to mobilize and grow the party's cadre. They bring a fresh perspective and the energy needed to revitalize the party.

Conclusion

While the future of the INC remains uncertain, the appointment of someone like Ashok Gehlot as the party president is a strategic decision that must be carefully considered. The INC needs leaders who can navigate the complexities of party politics and align with the party's vision for recovery. The key to its revival lies in grassroots mobilization and the infusion of new political ideas. Whether Ashok Gehlot retains his position or new leadership emerges, the need for structural and ideological renewal is paramount for the INC to regain its former strength and position as a formidable political force in India.