Patna, March 23 (NationPress) Rajesh Kumar, a Dalit leader hailing from Bihar, recently took on the role of State Congress President. On Saturday, he conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the party's central leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Mallikarjun Kharge, the party President.

"I am thankful to Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge for placing their trust in me with this significant role," he stated.

Kumar, who has served as the MLA from Kutumba constituency in Aurangabad district for two terms, was appointed as the President of the Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee (BPCC), taking over from Akhilesh Prasad Singh.

Upon his first visit to the party headquarters, Sadaqat Ashram, after his appointment, he appeared visibly emotional.

The party leaders warmly embraced him at the state headquarters.

In his speech, Kumar underscored the Congress' dedication to addressing public interest matters as the state gears up for the Assembly elections.

He raised issues like widespread corruption and unemployment, stating, "Currently, employment is not a topic of discussion, and corruption is rampant across all departments. We will engage with the public concerning these issues."

Kumar also stressed the need to boost the party's vote percentage, targeting a 24 percent increase, and highlighted the collective effort required from Congress leaders, district presidents, and party workers to achieve this aim.

"Our vote percentage is on the rise, and we must enhance it by 24 percent. We are committed to working towards this goal," he remarked.

When asked about possible electoral alliances and the number of seats Congress intends to contest, the newly appointed State party President mentioned that such discussions would take place closer to the election date.

He reiterated that the primary focus remains on connecting with the public regarding the pressing issues that affect their lives.

Kumar's appointment is viewed as a tactical move by Congress to fortify its support among marginalized communities in Bihar, particularly Dalits, Mahadalits, and economically disadvantaged groups, in anticipation of the upcoming Assembly elections later this year.

His leadership is expected to inject fresh energy into the party's initiatives in the state.

Congress is currently undergoing a transformation of its state leadership in Bihar.

Recently, Krishna Allavaru from Karnataka was appointed as the All India Congress Committee in-charge of Bihar, while Kanhaiya Kumar, the All India Congress Committee In-Charge of NSUI, is actively visiting each district in the state to bolster the party's grassroots presence.