 |
|
The Congress party in West Bengal has undergone a leadership change, with Subhankar Sarkar taking over as the new state president. This appointment follows the resignation of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, who had served as the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee chief, after losing his parliamentary seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Sarkar, previously the All India Congress Committee (AICC) Secretary in charge of northeastern states, now faces the crucial task of reviving the Congress in a state where it has experienced a decline in recent years.
Chowdhury's resignation came after the Congress's disappointing performance in the recent parliamentary polls, reflecting the party's struggle to maintain its presence in West Bengal. His long-standing criticism of the party's alliance with the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) at any level is seen as a contributing factor to his departure. The party leadership, under Mallikarjun Kharge, has acknowledged Chowdhury's contributions while confirming Sarkar's appointment with immediate effect.
Sarkar, in his inaugural statement, highlighted his commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing the Congress in West Bengal. He emphasized the importance of connecting with party workers at all levels and working towards a stronger and more unified party. Sarkar faces the daunting challenge of reversing the party's declining fortunes in a state where it has been overshadowed by the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The appointment of a new president comes after feedback from state leaders, who have been navigating the complex relationship between the Congress and the TMC, attempting to balance national coordination with local rivalries.
Sarkar's appointment signals a new chapter for the Congress in West Bengal. The success of his leadership will hinge on his ability to address the party's internal challenges, rebuild its base, and regain the trust of voters. The upcoming state assembly elections present a critical opportunity for the Congress to demonstrate its strength and relevance in West Bengal's political landscape. Sarkar's approach to rebuilding the party and his ability to navigate the complex political terrain will be crucial determinants of the Congress's future in the state.
Source: Adhir Ranjan's 1st reaction on new West Bengal Congress chief: ‘Don't want to…’