Rahul Gandhi pushes ideological clarity, grassroots overhaul at Kangra workshop
Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday underscored the need for ideological clarity and organisational reforms while addressing district presidents from three states at a training workshop in Kangra.
Interacting with 62 district presidents from Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, Rahul drew a sharp ideological contrast between the Congress and the BJP. He said the Congress stands for unity and integrity, while accusing the BJP of fostering divisions in society. He urged party leaders to take this ideological message to the grassroots and connect it with people’s everyday concerns.
A key focus of his address was the shift in the party’s organisational structure, particularly the process of appointing district presidents. Rahul highlighted a new system where applicants are shortlisted through a structured and transparent mechanism rather than traditional recommendation-based selections. Panels evaluate candidates, with final selections based on merit, performance and commitment to the organisation.
Emphasising the need for systemic change, Rahul outlined his broader vision for strengthening the party to tackle emerging political and global challenges. He called on district leaders to stay closely engaged with the public, stressing that leadership must be rooted in service rather than comfort or hierarchy.
The workshop, held under the Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan, marks the first such initiative in Himachal Pradesh and is aimed at reinforcing the Congress’s grassroots structure. Participants underwent sessions covering the party’s history, evolution, current political landscape and pressing economic issues. The programme also included field visits to provide hands-on exposure beyond classroom discussions.
The initiative is being viewed as part of the Congress’ larger strategy to consolidate its organisational base and sharpen its political narrative ahead of upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, speaking to the media after the workshop, highlighted Rahul’s active participation despite challenging weather conditions, describing it as a reflection of his commitment.
Sukhu said the Congress is contesting the upcoming Panchayati Raj elections with full strength, adding that local issues and the performance of elected representatives will be key factors for voters. He accused the BJP of misleading the public on issues such as Panchayati Raj poll and disaster response.
Targeting the previous BJP government, Sukhu alleged it left behind a debt burden exceeding Rs 76,000 crore, forcing the current government to borrow largely for debt servicing. Despite financial constraints and limited central support, he said, his government has implemented welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, including orphans and widows, while strengthening healthcare and education sectors.
