Rahul’s Odisha Visit: Can Congress Regain Its Status as Primary Opposition Force?

Rahul Gandhi’s Odisha visit aims to energize Congress, attract new members and reclaim its role as the state’s main opposition

OdishaPlus Bureau

The Odisha Congress is intensifying its efforts to bolster its organization in anticipation of Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the state on Friday, with the hope that this trip will assist the party in regaining its status as the primary Opposition force.

The state unit is revamping essential departments, including its media division, and is welcoming leaders from other political parties. On Wednesday, numerous individuals joined the Congress. Sources indicate that many dissatisfied BJD leaders are expected to join the party following Rahul’s visit.

“We have experienced 24 years of BJD governance and now one year of BJP. There has been no advancement. Incidents of violence against women have increased. Rahul Gandhi’s visit will inject new energy into the organization,” stated Odisha Congress president Bhakta Charan Das. He further mentioned that the “Save Constitution” meeting, which will be addressed by Rahul and AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge at Baramunda ground in Bhubaneswar, is anticipated to attract over one lakh attendees.

The party has designated three coordinators to facilitate the seamless execution of the event. Das indicated that Rahul will travel directly from the airport to the venue, where he will meet with two delegations of farmers, followed by interactions with MLAs and members of the political affairs committee.

Congress leader Amiya Pandav remarked: “Rahul’s visit will assist in energizing the cadres and instilling a sense of accountability among leaders.” He further stated, “Each leader is being given a role that aligns with their strengths. The rally will primarily focus on youth, farmers, and women, but we are ensuring that no group is overlooked.”

The Congress party, which has 14 MLAs in the state Assembly, is striving to revitalize itself under Das, a former Union minister. Following a well-attended rally in March of this year, the party is determined to enhance its efforts against the BJP. Political analysts suggest that the BJD’s inactivity following its defeat has created an opportunity for the Congress to re-establish itself as the principal Opposition.