The Congress party in Uttarakhand has initiated strategic planning for the 2027 Assembly elections. To effectively challenge the BJP, Congress will focus on Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and other marginalized communities.
Dehradun: Uttarakhand's political landscape is shifting, with Congress launching a significant strategic preparation for the 2027 Assembly elections. The party's focus is clear: strengthening its electoral base by prioritizing OBCs, SCs, STs, and minorities.
Congress has decided to overhaul its organizational structure, aiming to increase the participation of marginalized communities, prioritize collective leadership, and counter the BJP's communal politics.
Preparing for a Direct Confrontation with the BJP in 2027
Congress has faced consecutive defeats in Uttarakhand over the past decade, in both Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. For 2027, Congress is strategizing to halt the BJP's winning streak by leveraging issues of caste census, social justice, and the concerns of Dalit and backward communities.
In a recent meeting in New Delhi, the party high command clearly indicated that individual leadership or regional factionalism will not be tolerated in Uttarakhand. A collective leadership and organization based on caste balance will be crucial for Congress's revival.
Special Focus on OBCs, SCs-STs, and Minorities
A significant portion of Uttarakhand's population, approximately 78%, belongs to OBCs and general categories. Additionally, Scheduled Castes constitute about 19% and Scheduled Tribes about 3%. Based on these demographics, Congress has formulated a strategy to strengthen its base in areas where the BJP's control is not absolute.
Districts like Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Uttarkashi, with a large OBC population, will be key strategic centers for Congress. The party's success in winning some seats in these districts in 2022 could lay the foundation for 2027.
Emphasis on Training and Grassroots Engagement
Uttarakhand Congress Committee President Karan Mahra stated that Congress has launched a concerted effort to activate its organization and engage with all sections of society. Training camps are being organized across all districts, where workers are being instructed to develop communication strategies based on social justice, Congress ideology, and the shortcomings of the current government's policies.
Young people from OBC and SC-ST communities are being specifically engaged in the organization. Simultaneously, a strategy is being adopted to be vocal about atrocities against women and girls, ensuring the party remains relevant on sensitive issues.
Caste Census as a Political Weapon
The caste census, which Congress has championed nationally, is poised to become a key electoral weapon in Uttarakhand. The party views it as a crucial step towards social justice and will utilize it against the BJP's communal polarization. Senior Congress leaders believe that while the BJP focuses on a specific vote bank, Congress advocates for representation and respect for all sections of society. Following this policy, the party will now project candidates from marginalized communities who have b grassroots connections.
'Not Alone, Collective Leadership Will Define Congress'
The high command has made it clear that the "individualistic approach" will not be tolerated in Uttarakhand. All party leaders will work together to cultivate an image of collective leadership. Congress is working to ensure inclusive leadership at every level, from the booth level to the state president.
Furthermore, the party has tasked its women's, youth, and student wings with raising awareness among marginalized communities and connecting them with Congress. From student union elections to panchayat-level elections, the party aims to disseminate its ideology to all sections of society.
