At one time, Congress was not just a political platform but the center of India’s ideology. Great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel were associated with the party. After the formation of Gujarat in 1960, Congress remained in power almost continuously until 1995. Leaders such as Morarji Desai and K. M. Munshi played key roles in the state government. During this period, Congress contributed significantly to social reforms, agriculture, and industrial development. Ahmedabad also hosted AICC sessions that helped shape national politics.
In 1995, Bharatiya Janata Party came to power, marking the beginning of Congress’s decline. Since 1998, BJP has maintained continuous control. Internal conflicts within Congress, unfulfilled promises on social justice, and its inability to align with narratives like Hindutva and development weakened the party. During Narendra Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister (2001–2014), the “Gujarat Model” strengthened BJP’s position across India. Many Congress leaders and workers switched to BJP.
In the 2017 assembly elections, Congress slightly improved its seat count, but in 2022 it was reduced to just 17 seats, while BJP won 156. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Congress secured only one seat in Banaskantha. The main reasons for this decline include internal divisions, demoralized workers, and loss of public support.
In 2025, an AICC session was held in Ahmedabad after 64 years, seen as an attempt to revive the party. Gujarat Congress president Amit Chavda launched the “Jan Aakrosh Yatra” criticizing BJP’s policies, but the ground reality remains tough. During his Gujarat visit in 2025, Rahul Gandhi said that party workers are divided into two groups—one dedicated to public service and another allegedly aligned with BJP. He stated, “Half of the workers are working for BJP.”
Lack of strong leadership, absence of active central guidance, and weak organizational structure have left workers disheartened. Public support has also shifted away from Congress. Though a few experienced senior leaders remain, they largely rely on their past legacy.
Congress’s biggest challenge is to rebuild leadership and regain public trust. If it can strengthen its organization, energize its workers, and reconnect with the people, it may stage a comeback. Experience remains its key asset, but it needs fresh energy and clear leadership to make it effective.
While Congress is unlikely to perform well in the upcoming local body elections, it may still have a chance to recover if it works hard before the 2027 assembly elections.
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