In a strategic move signaling a significant overhaul within the Congress party, Sachin Pilot has been appointed as the General Secretary in charge of Chhattisgarh, marking a pivotal shift in the party’s leadership dynamics. This restructuring comes in anticipation of the looming Lok Sabha elections, as the Congress aims to reinforce its standing and unity in key states.
The reshuffle, disclosed after a crucial meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) chaired by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, unveils a series of changes resonating across several states. Notably, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, previously holding the position of Uttar Pradesh in charge, has been replaced by Avinash Pandey while retaining her General Secretary title, devoid of any specific portfolio within the party structure.
Pilot’s elevation to the role of General Secretary in Chhattisgarh is widely interpreted as an effort to assuage his aspirations for a more prominent role within the Congress. His dissatisfaction with the leadership in Rajasthan nearly led to a political upheaval in 2020 when, as the Deputy Chief Minister, he spearheaded a challenge against Ashok Gehlot’s authority, posing a substantial threat to the party’s stability in the state.
Amid a deadlock, negotiations between Pilot and the Congress leadership, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, eventually diffused the crisis. Despite this, tensions between Gehlot and Pilot persisted, resulting in electoral setbacks for the Congress in Rajasthan in subsequent polls.
The party’s reconfiguration follows disappointing performances in key states, leading to selective changes in leadership roles. While retaining the heads of Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, the Congress replaced Kamal Nath with Jitu Patwari as the state unit chief in Madhya Pradesh.
Furthermore, the appointments extend beyond specific state domains, with significant assignments bestowed upon party members in various regions across the country. Mukul Wasnik assumes responsibility for Gujarat, Jitendra Singh gains additional charge of Madhya Pradesh alongside Assam, Randeep Surjewala takes on Karnataka, Kumari Selja is entrusted with Uttarakhand, and Deepa Dasmunshi receives assignments in Kerala, Lakshadweep, and the added charge of Telangana.
In Bihar, the party has entrusted Mohan Prakash, a seasoned leader with ties to both Lalu Yadav and Nitish Kumar, as the state in-charge. Prakash, a prominent figure in socialist circles and a former member of Janata Dal, is expected to navigate the political landscape in Bihar as the elections draw near.
The comprehensive reorganization unveiled by the Congress, following deliberations within the CWC, underscores the party’s concerted efforts to revitalize its structure and strategic positioning ahead of the imminent electoral challenges on the horizon. The changes reflect an attempt to address internal dissensions while galvanizing the party’s prospects for the upcoming polls.
Sources By Agencies