Munish Sood
Kangra
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday called for comprehensive organisational reforms and stronger grassroots engagement while interacting with district presidents from Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh during a Congress workshop in Kangra.
The interaction was part of a 10-day training programme aimed at strengthening the party structure and developing a more transparent and participatory organisational framework.
Earlier, Rahul Gandhi was accorded a warm welcome on his arrival at Kangra Airport (Dharamshala ) where he was received by senior Congress leaders, including Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Overhaul in District President Selection
A key highlight of the workshop was the significant change in the process of appointing district presidents. Moving away from the earlier practice of selections based largely on recommendations by senior leaders, the party has introduced an open application system allowing any interested individual to apply.
The revised process gives priority to commitment, ideological clarity, and organisational vision, marking a shift toward internal democracy and merit-based leadership within the Congress.
Emphasis on Ideology and Structural Change
Addressing the gathering, Rahul Gandhi outlined the ideological differences between the Congress and the BJP, stating that the Congress remains committed to protecting the unity, integrity, and inclusiveness of the country, while alleging that the opposing ideology fosters division.
He also spoke about global developments, future policy challenges, and the need for systematic organisational changes to keep pace with evolving political dynamics.
Urging leaders to strengthen public connect, Gandhi called on district presidents to actively engage with people across all sections of society and work to bridge divides. He stressed that politics should be driven by public service rather than electoral considerations alone.
In a significant remark, he indicated that committed party workers at the district level could rise to higher positions, including membership of the Rajya Sabha.
Sukhu Targets BJP Over Debt Burden
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also addressed the workshop and criticised the previous BJP government, accusing it of leaving behind a substantial debt burden.
He said the current government is managing financial liabilities while continuing development initiatives and maintaining capital expenditure. Sukhu added that financial assistance has been extended to disaster-affected families and that efforts are underway to strengthen the health and education sectors.
Accusing the BJP of spreading misinformation and politicising issues, he asserted that the Congress government is committed to making Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and economically strong, with a long-term vision of building a prosperous and empowered state.
Strategic Importance
Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Kangra is being seen as part of a broader strategy to revitalise the Congress organisation, particularly in northern states. The focus on transparency, internal reforms, and grassroots mobilisation signals a renewed push by the party leadership to strengthen its base ahead of upcoming political challenges.
