Can the Congress Thrive Without Rahul Gandhi?

As Rahul Gandhi prepares to step down from a significant position at the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the question looms large: Can the Indian National Congress (Congress) function without its central leader?

The Congress, unlike the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has become deeply reliant on Rahul Gandhi and the continuous support of other patriotic leaders within the party. This reliance is not a simple matter of trusting a single individual; it is rooted in the extensive network of supporters and the party's overall structure.

The BJP: A Case Study in Leader Independence

While the BJP has demonstrated resilience in the absence of its founding members, such as Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Advani, the same cannot be said for the Congress. It is imperative to recognize that the Congress, under the current leadership, has become more dependent on Rahul Gandhi. This dependency demands an in-depth analysis of the unique challenges and opportunities that arise from such a situation.

Towards Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry

The efforts to re-establish the former glory of the Congress in regions like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry require a collaborative approach involving both younger leaders and veteran figures. Without such a restructuring, it becomes challenging to determine the clear direction the party is heading.

No Pressure on the Young Leader

There is a growing sense of responsibility placed on young leaders like Rahul Gandhi. However, it is important not to place undue pressure on him. Despite the expectations and the party's merger into a broader ideological framework, Rahul Gandhi has already expressed that the Congress is not just a political party but a way of thinking. This shift in perspective is reflective of his vision and strategy for the party.

While no individual is irreplaceable, the culture of deification of leaders within the Congress and other political parties in India poses a significant challenge. Once the next election reveals Rahul Gandhi's capability to restore the Congress's dominance, factions within the party may demand a change in leadership. Examples like the G23 movement highlight the internal dynamics at play.

Rahul Gandhi: A Double-Edged Sword

Rahul Gandhi's influence over the Congress is undeniably powerful and polarizing. On one hand, his leadership is critical for the party's continued relevance, but on the other hand, his departure raises concerns about the future of the Congress. The party's resilience without Rahul Gandhi remains uncertain, and the assumption that Congress can thrive without him but not survive without the Gandhi family is a complicated situation.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

The Congress must engage in a thorough self-assessment to determine its future. While it is possible for the party to function without Rahul Gandhi, it cannot thrive without the broader Gandhi family's influence. Navigating this complex landscape will require strategic changes in both leadership and ideological alignment.

This exploration into the Congress's future without Rahul Gandhi underscores the need for a thoughtful and inclusive approach to rebuilding the party's foundation and ensuring its continued relevance in Indian politics.