Congress Eyes Assam with Priyanka Gandhi's Leadership to Counter BJP Influence
Congress Strategy in Assam
The Congress party believes that an inactive internal network, which they refer to as potential sleeper cells, remains operational in Assam and is influencing organizational decisions. Senior party officials assert that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who transitioned from Congress to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), continues to exert influence over certain individuals within the Congress framework in the state. The party is now optimistic that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's increased involvement will help neutralize this influence.
Priyanka Gandhi's Role
During the previous Assam assembly elections, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was actively engaged behind the scenes, although she did not appear publicly during the campaign. At that time, Bhupesh Baghel served as the senior observer for the state. Insiders within Congress believe that Priyanka's strong leadership, strategic clarity, and ability to connect with party workers could inject new energy into the organization and counter any lingering indirect influence following Sarma's departure.
Political Calculations Behind Focus on Assam
The party's renewed focus on Assam is driven by clear political calculations. Unlike West Bengal, where Congress lacks a robust organizational base, or Tamil Nadu, where it remains a junior partner, party leaders see a genuine opportunity for a comeback in Assam. Priyanka Gandhi cannot assume organizational responsibilities in Kerala due to internal regulations that prevent leaders from holding positions in states where they are MPs, as this could lead to conflicts of interest. Given these constraints, Assam has emerged as the most promising area for Priyanka to take charge and shape the political landscape.
Strengthening Party Image
Congress leaders believe that Priyanka's presence will help the party build a stronger image, maintain visibility in the media, and boost the morale of grassroots workers. Her involvement will signal the party's seriousness about regaining power in Assam and energize coalition partners. In the last assembly elections, the Mahajot alliance secured 43.68% of the votes, while the NDA received 44.51%. The NDA won 75 seats, compared to Mahajot's 50. At that time, the screening committee was chaired by Prithviraj Chavan. Congress is confident that organizational stability, strategic messaging, and Priyanka's leadership can help close this gap in the upcoming elections.