CONGRESS LOSES WAY AFTER MAHARASHTRA LOSS

NEW DELHI A fter a crushing defeat in Maharashtra, enthusiasm among Congress party cadres has diminished, particularly as the Delhi Assembly elections approach.

- BADAR BASHIR

Many leaders believe that unless there is a major correction in the party's hierarchy, changes will not reflect on the ground.

Political analysts highlight the lack of decisive leadership at the top. According to one expert, "The party does not have anyone at the top among Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and KC Venugopal who is decisive and can build trust within the rank and file of the party by making hardhitting decisions." The expert added, "The cadre is demotivated after the Maharashtra loss and disconnected from grassroots issues, which it usually focuses on during elections.

This has limited its primary ability to mobilize voters effectively. Additionally, weak internal communication and factionalism in several state units have hampered the party's ability to present a united front." Congress has yet to craft a compelling narrative to counter the BJP effectively.