Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched a scathing attack on the Congress party on Thursday. He declared that the party has no future unless it detaches itself from the Gandhi family. His statement has once again sparked a debate over the leadership structure of India’s oldest political party.
“Congress Can’t Be Rejuvenated With Gandhi at Helm”
Speaking to reporters during a press meet in Guwahati, Sarma said, “The only way for Congress to rejuvenate itself is to remove the Gandhi family completely. As long as the leadership remains within that family, the party will continue to weaken.”
He added that the Congress no longer inspires public trust and that the leadership’s repeated failures are hurting the party at both state and national levels.
Renewed Criticism Amid Political Shifts
Sarma’s remarks come at a time when internal fissures within the Congress are being reported in several states, including Rajasthan and Maharashtra. The party has faced a series of electoral setbacks in recent years, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expanded its footprint.
The Assam CM, a former Congress leader who joined the BJP in 2015, often criticises his former party and its high command. On Thursday, he doubled down, saying, “People are fed up with dynasty politics. India needs leadership based on merit, not bloodlines.”
Leadership in Question After Poll Losses
Congress has struggled to assert itself as a strong opposition force. The 2024 general election saw a marginal improvement in its tally, but critics argue that this was due more to alliance dynamics than leadership.
Sarma cited Rahul Gandhi’s political journey as an example of poor strategic decisions. “He walks in and out of campaigns, but where is the vision? Leadership isn’t about photo-ops; it’s about results,” he said.
Congress Defends Its Core
Responding to Sarma’s statement, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said, “This is a typical diversion tactic. BJP should focus on governance instead of commenting on Congress leadership. The Gandhi family continues to be a unifying force within the party.”
Congress supporters argue that the party’s internal democratic processes should not be dictated by political opponents.
BJP’s Broader Strategy?
Political analysts view Sarma’s statement as part of BJP’s broader push to keep the Congress under pressure. “It’s not just about Assam. This statement has national implications. The BJP is trying to shape public perception that Congress is obsolete under the Gandhis,” said Dr. Nilanjan Das, a political commentator.
In Assam, the BJP has solidified its dominance, while the Congress has steadily lost ground. Sarma’s words may also reflect confidence in BJP’s stronghold in the Northeast.
Public Reaction Mixed
Public response to Sarma’s comments was divided. Some social media users praised his boldness, while others accused him of using Congress criticism as a political tool.
A Guwahati resident, Rajiv Deka, said, “Sarma is right to call for change. Congress has become too predictable.” Another resident, Amrita Nath, said, “Targeting one family every time is an easy trick. Let him focus on issues like inflation and jobs.”
The Road Ahead
With assembly elections approaching in several states, political temperatures are rising. Sarma’s latest remarks are expected to fuel more debates around dynastic politics and party restructuring.
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