Congress Risks Political Oblivion in West Bengal

The Indian National Congress is facing a critical juncture in West Bengal as it grapples with deepening challenges related to a leadership vacuum, ideological disorientation, and an eroding grassroots base.

- Tikam Sharma

Once a formidable political force in the state, the party now struggles for relevance amid the ascent of regional giants and shifting electoral preferences.

Party insiders concede that the Congress currently lacks a coherent and unified strategy in the state. Despite nationwide efforts to reestablish its presence through alliances and outreach campaigns, the West Bengal unit remains deeply fragmented, suffering from a glaring disconnect between top leadership and grassroots cadres.

"There is no clear roadmap, no strategic planning, and a poor understanding of the issues that actually matter to Bengal's people," admitted a senior Congress leader from the state on condition of anonymity.

The party's organisational fragility has been further exposed by its lacklustre performance in recent elections, where it failed to leave a mark even in its traditional strongholds.