Surat, March 9 — Congress leader Rahul Gandhi signaled a major revamp in the party’s Gujarat unit, warning of strict action, including expulsions, against those allegedly working in favor of the BJP.
Addressing party workers on the second day of his Gujarat visit, Gandhi stressed the need to distinguish between two groups within the party—those genuinely committed to Congress ideology and public service, and others who had distanced themselves from the people. “Half of them are with the BJP,” he alleged.
“Our priority should be identifying and separating these groups, even if it requires tough measures,” he said, adding that the party would struggle to regain the trust of Gujarat’s people without this internal cleansing.
Gandhi’s visit is part of the Congress’ preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections, with indications of a leadership shake-up. He assured workers that a robust strategy was in place to challenge the BJP.
He urged party leaders at all levels to fully embrace Congress values. “The party should be in their hearts. Elections come and go, but what matters is earning the people’s trust,” he said.
Criticizing Gujarat’s economic situation, Gandhi claimed that key industries like diamond, textile, and ceramics were suffering, while farmers remained in distress. “The people of Gujarat need a fresh vision because the one followed for the last 20-25 years has failed. Congress can provide that vision, but only after we fix our internal issues,” he said.
Reflecting on the Congress’ long absence from power in Gujarat, Gandhi admitted that election outcomes were tied to the party’s own shortcomings. “We can’t expect people to trust us unless we fulfill our responsibilities. Power should not be our demand—it should be something we earn,” he stated.
He reminded workers of Gujarat’s historical significance to the Congress, being the home state of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel. “Without Gandhi, India wouldn’t have gained independence,” he said, calling Patel one of the party’s greatest leaders.
Gandhi asserted that while Congress had capable leadership, many were being held back. “Our leaders, including myself, need to directly connect with the people, understand their expectations, and work on their key concerns like education and healthcare,” he said.
Citing Congress’ recent success in Telangana, where an increase of 22% in vote share secured victory, he suggested that a similar boost of just 5% in Gujarat could bring the party back to power.
During his visit, Gandhi met with district and block-level party leaders. His trip precedes the upcoming All India Congress Committee (AICC) session, scheduled for April 8-9 in Ahmedabad—the first in Gujarat in 64 years.
In the 2022 Assembly elections, Congress secured only 17 out of 182 seats in Gujarat, a number that later dropped to 12 following the resignation of five MLAs.