New Delhi: Praising the party’s performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) stated on Saturday that the outcome represented not just a political setback but a personal and moral defeat for the Prime Minister, who had sought a mandate in his own name.
The committee asserted that the populace had unequivocally rejected the style of governance observed over the past decade.
Resolutions Adopted
During the pivotal Congress Working Committee meeting, two resolutions were unanimously adopted. The first resolution requested Rahul Gandhi to assume the role of Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. The second resolution, reflecting on the election results, noted that the verdict was a clear repudiation of the erosion of democracy and democratic institutions since 2014.
The CWC acknowledged the party’s subpar performance in certain states and emphasized the need for immediate corrective measures.
“This meeting of the CWC congratulates the citizens of our country for voting decisively to preserve our democracy, uphold the Constitution, and promote social and economic justice. They have resoundingly rejected both the essence and the method of governance over the past decade,” one of the resolutions stated.
‘A Personal Defeat for Modi’
“The people’s verdict is not merely a political loss but a personal and moral defeat for the Prime Minister, who sought a mandate in his name and conducted a campaign rooted in falsehoods, hate, prejudice, divisiveness, and extreme bigotry. The verdict is clearly against the undermining of democracy and its institutions that has occurred since 2014,” the resolution stated.
The CWC also expressed gratitude to the nation’s citizens for placing the Congress on a path to revival.
“…leaders and workers persevered. The people across the country have revitalized the Congress, for which we are truly grateful,” it stated.
The resolution commended the party for conducting a “superb” campaign centered on a “vigorous defense of our republic’s Constitution” and the provisions for reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
“We offered a clear alternative political, economic, and social vision. The campaign had a distinctive pro-poor focus and emphasized the urgent need for a nationwide socio-economic caste census to deepen social justice and empowerment, addressing the demands of youth and farmers immediately,” the resolution added.
Recognition of Leadership
The CWC acknowledged the significant contributions of four key figures who led the party’s campaign. It praised the energy and determination of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, noting his bold and fearless leadership both inside and outside Parliament.
“The chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, Sonia Gandhi, was always available for guidance, advice, and support, and her interventions at critical moments of the campaign made a substantial impact,” the resolution noted.
The resolution also highlighted the remarkable campaign efforts of AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, for her relentless exposure of the BJP and effective communication of the Congress’ key messages.
Rahul Gandhi was commended for his leadership, particularly through the Bharat Jodo Yatra and the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, which were seen as historic turning points in the nation’s politics, instilling hope and confidence in party workers and voters.
“Rahul Gandhi’s election campaign was focused, sharp, and pointed. More than any other individual, he emphasized the protection of our republic’s Constitution as the central issue in the 2024 elections. The Paanch Nyay-Pachees Guarantee program, which resonated strongly during the campaign, was the result of Rahul ji’s yatras,” the resolution stated.
Strengthening Opposition in Parliament
The CWC also recognized the commendable efforts of the candidates who lost and, while sharing their disappointment, extended good wishes to them.
“The CWC thanks the INDIA parties for their strong performance in various states. The INDIA parties in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra performed exceptionally well. The 18th Lok Sabha will be significantly influenced by the INDIA parties,” the resolution stated.
“The CWC acknowledges the disappointing performance of the Congress in certain states amidst its overall revival and rejuvenation. Urgent steps will be taken to address the shortcomings in states where the party had hoped for better results but did not meet expectations,” it added.
Expressing satisfaction with the Congress’ electoral resurgence and recognizing the challenges ahead, the CWC concluded, “We have recovered and revived, but we still have a long way to go to reclaim the preeminent position the party once held in the nation’s political life. The people of India have spoken—the Congress has been given another chance. It is now up to us to build on this opportunity. We must and we will. This is the solemn resolve of this CWC meeting.”
