Tensions are rising within the INDIA bloc as the Congress party, through its newly appointed Uttar Pradesh in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam, has put forth a significant demand for seat-sharing ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. Gautam, who recently took over the state unit's leadership, stated that the Congress expects an equal share in any alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP).
Congress Seeks Equal Footing in Uttar Pradesh Alliance
Speaking on the future of the alliance in Uttar Pradesh, Gautam emphasized that as a national party, Congress should be afforded equal respect and equity within the INDIA alliance framework. He clarified that while discussions are underway, the ultimate decision on seat distribution would rest with the top leadership of both the Congress and the Samajwadi Party.
"We are a national party, we should have an equal share. The whole nation looks towards Congress. We strengthen the INDIA alliance, and there should be equal respect and equity. The top leadership of both parties will sit and decide. The fight will be equal," Gautam stated, signaling a firm stance from the Congress.
Gautam's Vision for UP Congress and Alliance Strategy
Since replacing Avinash Pande as the Uttar Pradesh in-charge, Rajendra Pal Gautam has been actively outlining his objectives for the party. His primary goals include strengthening the Congress organization down to the village level within a month and eradicating internal factionalism that has plagued the state unit. He stressed the importance of regional parties uniting to fortify the INDIA alliance rather than remaining fragmented.
Gautam also declared his intention to tour the entirety of Uttar Pradesh to galvanize the party's base. His broader political aim is to work towards removing what he described as the Bharatiya Janata Party's 'anti-Bahujan government' from the state, expressing gratitude to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and former President Rahul Gandhi for the trust placed in him.
Rajendra Pal Gautam's Background and Appointment
A prominent leader from the Dalit community, Rajendra Pal Gautam's appointment comes months before the crucial Assembly elections. He previously served as a minister in the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi before joining the Congress in September 2024. Shortly after, he was made chairman of the party’s Scheduled Caste Department. His current mandate is to revitalize the Congress in Uttar Pradesh under the leadership of Kharge and Gandhi, with a particular focus on appealing to the Bahujan community, which he claims is increasingly looking to Rahul Gandhi for leadership.