Congress Leaders Rally Together in Odisha: A Call to Unite Against BJP

In a recent rally in Bhubaneswar, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi called for unity among party leaders in Odisha to challenge the BJP government. They emphasized the importance of strengthening the party's base and addressing internal conflicts that have hindered past electoral success. With a focus on the coastal regions, Gandhi urged leaders to inform the public about the influence of capitalists in the state. The rally showcased a renewed commitment to positioning Congress as the true opposition in Odisha, aiming for a resurgence in the upcoming elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2025, 20:29 IST

Strengthening the Party's Resolve

Bhubaneswar: On Friday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi called upon party members in Odisha to unite against the ruling BJP government in the state.

Following their address at the 'Samvidhan Bachao Samavesh' event in Bhubaneswar, Kharge and Gandhi engaged in private discussions with state party leaders.

KC Venugopal, the Congress general secretary for organization, also participated in these crucial meetings.

The initial gathering included members of the political affairs committee, while the subsequent meeting involved Odisha's legislators and party officials.

Historically, Congress dominated Odisha for nearly forty years but has not held power since 2000.

During the discussions, Gandhi emphasized the need for Congress leaders to bolster the party's presence in Odisha's coastal areas and to confront the BJP with determination, as noted by Koraput MP Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka.

Gandhi expressed his worries regarding internal conflicts within the state unit, which he believes contributed to the party's electoral defeats. He stressed that unity among leaders is essential for revitalizing the party.

He urged party officials to communicate to the public that a small group of capitalists has seized control in Odisha, according to former OPCC president Niranjan Patnaik.

Minakshi Bahinipati, the head of the Congress women's wing in the state, acknowledged that internal strife has hindered the party's progress.

"Rahul Gandhi has encouraged us to unite in our efforts to oust the BJP from power in Odisha," she stated.

Venugopal shared highlights from Gandhi's speech at the rally on social media, asserting that the public recognizes Congress as the genuine opposition in Odisha.

"The turnout at today's rally and the ongoing support for our initiatives indicate that, within just a year of the BJP's governance, people are viewing Congress as the party that can secure a better future for them."