What Led Congress to Review Its Bihar Election Setback?
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Synopsis
In a crucial review meeting post-Bihar elections, Congress leaders, including Kharge and Gandhi, examined their party's electoral failings. They pointed to alleged vote theft and EC bias as key factors in their defeat, while also discussing strategies to improve in future elections.
Key Takeaways
- Congress experienced a significant electoral defeat in Bihar.
- Allegations of vote theft and Election Commission bias were raised.
- All 61 candidates participated in the review meeting.
- Future strategies will focus on correcting identified weaknesses.
- The leadership aims to regain voter trust.
Patna, Nov 27 (NationPress) In the aftermath of the Congress party's significant defeat in the Bihar Assembly elections, senior leaders convened for an important review meeting in Delhi on Thursday. The gathering included Party President Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Ajay Maken, and various senior officials, where candidates and state leaders from Bihar shared their evaluations.
Every one of the 61 Congress candidates from Bihar was invited to this pivotal meeting.
Post-discussion, Bihar Congress President Rajesh Ram and state in-charge Krishna Allavaru addressed the press, asserting that the Election Commission favored the ruling NDA, which they claimed played a crucial role in the Grand Alliance's downfall.
Ram alleged that extensive instances of "vote theft" occurred during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process carried out by the Election Commission.
He further claimed that the ruling NDA provided financial support to voters and Jeevika Didis, many of whom were reportedly stationed at polling stations to sway voter opinion.
Ram accused the ruling coalition of "rigging" the election with administrative backing.
Despite all the favoritism shown by the Election Commission, Ram noted, the vote share for the Grand Alliance -- particularly for Congress -- actually increased.
He mentioned, "All 61 candidates provided their perspectives in today's review meeting. Each one indicated that vote theft and the financial aid issued by the ruling parties during the elections were key factors in the Grand Alliance's loss."
The Congress leadership has tasked all candidates, along with the six newly elected MLAs, to compile comprehensive reports detailing the reasons behind their electoral defeat, including local weaknesses and organizational flaws.
The leadership is evaluating whether local conditions played a part in the loss or whether the overarching campaign strategy itself was flawed.
Former Bihar Congress President Akhilesh Prasad Singh stated: "Everyone was heard on a constituency basis. Corrective measures will be implemented to address shortcomings. We believe all participants left feeling satisfied."
Congress leader Shakeel Ahmed Khan added: "A thorough discussion took place. Senior leaders expressed their thoughts on the voting trends, the NDA's victory, and the steps needed moving forward. Many sought tickets, but only a select few can be chosen -- so there's no use placing blame on anyone."
The party regards this review as a crucial step in recalibrating its future strategies in Bihar.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the implications of this review meeting. The Congress Party is taking serious steps to address its electoral failures, indicating a proactive approach to governance. The allegations of vote theft and EC bias raise critical questions about electoral integrity in India. Moving forward, the party's ability to recalibrate its strategy will be key in regaining public confidence.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors contributed to Congress's defeat in Bihar?
Congress leaders cited vote theft and alleged bias from the Election Commission as primary reasons for their electoral loss.
Who attended the Congress review meeting?
Key figures such as Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Ajay Maken were present, along with all 61 Bihar Congress candidates.
What measures will Congress take moving forward?
The party has asked candidates and newly elected MLAs to provide detailed reports on the loss, focusing on grassroots issues and organizational weaknesses.
