Congress Intensifies Focus on Kerala Elections Amid Leadership Changes

As the Kerala assembly elections approach, Congress is intensifying its focus on the state, with significant leadership changes following Rahul Gandhi's cancellation of his visit due to concerns over Sonia Gandhi's health. Senior leader Mallikarjun Kharge is set to lead the campaign's launch in Kozhikode, aiming to regain lost ground after a disappointing performance in the 2021 elections. With the party's strategy evolving, the upcoming rally is expected to draw considerable attention as Congress seeks to strengthen its position against the ruling Left Democratic Front. Despite the challenges, campaign activities will continue uninterrupted, showcasing the party's commitment to the electoral process.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 25, 2026, 15:42 IST

Congress's Strategic Focus on Kerala Elections

The active involvement of Congress leadership in the Kerala assembly elections highlights their serious strategic approach. While assembly elections are also taking place in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, Congress appears to be concentrating its efforts primarily on Kerala. The opposition coalition led by Congress, known as the UDF, is contesting 92 out of 140 seats, with the remaining seats allocated among allied parties. In the previous assembly elections of 2021, Congress fielded candidates for 93 seats, of which 21 emerged victorious. This time, several senior party leaders have been actively engaging in their respective regions in preparation for the elections. K.C. Venugopal has also been dedicating significant time to his constituency, suggesting a possibility of him contesting. However, following Rahul Gandhi's firm stance, the political dynamics seem to be shifting, leading to a new direction in the party's strategy.

Rahul Gandhi Cancels Kerala Visit

Rahul Gandhi has canceled his planned visit to Kerala due to concerns regarding his mother Sonia Gandhi's health. He was scheduled to kick off the party's assembly election campaign with a major rally in Kozhikode, but the plans changed at the last moment. To compensate for this, senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge has departed for the election-bound state and will now lead the campaign's initiation.

Sonia Gandhi Under Medical Supervision in Delhi

This development comes shortly after Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi. Doctors are closely monitoring her condition, although sources indicate that her illness is related to seasonal changes and is not severe. Reports suggest she is under the care of specialists and receiving treatment. Sonia has previously faced respiratory issues and was hospitalized earlier this year due to bronchial asthma exacerbated by cold weather and high pollution levels.

Kharge to Lead Campaign Launch in Kozhikode

In light of Rahul Gandhi's temporary withdrawal, Kharge will address a rally scheduled for Wednesday evening at Kozhikode Beach. This event, organized by the Congress-led United Democratic Front, is expected to draw significant attention as it marks the formal commencement of the party's election campaign. Kerala remains a crucial electoral battleground where Congress aims to strengthen its position against the ruling Left Democratic Front.

Congress Aims for Comeback After 2021 Setback

In the 2021 assembly elections, the LDF achieved a decisive victory, winning 99 seats and returning to power for a second consecutive term. The UDF, led by Congress, secured only 41 seats, reflecting a decline from its previous performance. Meanwhile, the National Democratic Alliance lost its sole seat and experienced a significant drop in its vote share. Against this backdrop, Congress is hopeful of regaining lost ground in the upcoming elections, with Kharge's rally serving as the starting point for this effort.

Campaign Activities Continue Despite Rahul Gandhi's Absence

Rahul Gandhi's absence underscores the party's particular focus on Sonia Gandhi's health, yet Congress leaders have emphasized that campaign activities will proceed without interruption. It is anticipated that under Kharge's leadership, senior leaders will continue outreach efforts until Rahul returns to his regular schedule and re-engages in the campaign.