Congress Leader Acknowledges BJP's Organizational Strength Amid Controversy

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh's recent comments acknowledging the organizational strength of the BJP and RSS have ignited a heated debate within his party. While some Congress members argue that the BJP should learn from them, others express concern over Singh's remarks, viewing them as dissent against Rahul Gandhi's leadership. Singh clarified that his praise was not an endorsement of the BJP's ideology but rather an acknowledgment of their organizational skills. This controversy has led to varied responses from Congress leaders, reflecting the party's internal dynamics and challenges in strengthening its own organization.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 28, 2025, 16:01 IST

Digvijaya Singh's Remarks Spark Debate

On Saturday, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh acknowledged the impressive organizational framework of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its affiliate, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He noted that the Congress party has areas that require enhancement.

His comments elicited strong responses from various Congress members, who argued that it is the BJP and RSS that should take cues from the Congress.

Singh shared an old image featuring Prime Minister Modi alongside veteran BJP figure LK Advani, stating, "Observe how a grassroots worker of the RSS and Jan Sangh rises to become a chief minister and eventually the prime minister."

He emphasized, "This illustrates the strength of organization. Jai Siya Ram."

Later, Singh clarified that his statements were solely focused on organizational aspects and did not imply support for the BJP or RSS. He expressed his opposition to the RSS ideology, stating, "They do not respect the Constitution or the laws of the country, and they operate as an unregistered entity. However, I do admire their organizational skills."

Congress Leaders Respond

Singh pointed out that the Congress party has "room for improvement" in its organizational capacity. He remarked that while Congress is fundamentally a movement-driven party, it struggles to translate that momentum into electoral success.

The BJP interpreted Singh's comments as a sign of "open dissent" against Rahul Gandhi's leadership within the Congress. Party spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari stated that Singh's remarks highlighted the collapse of the Congress organization under Gandhi's guidance.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor remarked that while Singh is entitled to his views, he also desires a stronger organizational structure within the party, emphasizing the need for discipline.

Diverse Opinions Within Congress

In contrast, fellow Congress member Pawan Khera dismissed the idea of learning from the RSS, questioning, "What can an organization known for Godse teach one founded by Gandhi?"

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate echoed this sentiment, asserting that the party does not need to learn from anyone and that others should learn from them. She accused the BJP of misrepresenting statements made by Congress members.