In a candid assessment of the political landscape, a former Congress leader has stated that the party has "somewhere lost ground" and that the "impression that the PM does everything wrong is incorrect". This statement comes at a time when the Congress party is facing significant challenges, including internal discord, fractured leadership, and the erosion of core vote banks.

The former Union minister, Ashwani Kumar, emphasized the importance of Congress as an effective opposition in the country, stating that it is a "national obligation" for the party to revive itself. Kumar, who quit Congress in February 2022, also advised his former party to align their actions with their words, particularly regarding allegations of "vote chori" (vote theft). He noted that questioning EVM results when the party loses, while accepting them when victorious, undermines their moral standing.

Kumar's remarks followed the launch of his book "Guardians of the Republic," where he lamented the decline of civility in democracy and called for a restoration of balance. He acknowledged Congress's rich legacy but stressed the need for introspection and revival. He also noted that Rahul Gandhi is an idealist but messaging of the Congress has gone wrong.

The challenges faced by the Congress are multifaceted. In Mumbai, for instance, the party has struggled to maintain its dominance in the civic landscape, with internal conflicts and shifting demographics contributing to its decline. The party's last victory in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) was in 1992, and since then, it has faced an uphill battle to regain its relevance.

Nationally, the Congress faces the daunting task of countering the BJP's narrative and regaining the trust of voters. Some analysts suggest that the party's messaging has been ineffective, failing to resonate with the electorate. Others point to a disconnect between the party leadership and grassroots workers, hindering effective mobilization and outreach.

Adding to the party's woes, several leaders have left the Congress in recent years, citing a lack of opportunities and a failure to address their concerns. This exodus of talent has further weakened the party's organizational structure and its ability to mount a credible challenge to the ruling government.

Despite these challenges, some within the Congress remain optimistic about the party's future. They believe that by addressing internal issues, reconnecting with voters, and offering a clear and compelling vision for the country, the Congress can revive its fortunes and once again play a significant role in Indian politics. Rahul Gandhi hailed his party MPs' performance during debates and told them that the government seemed "under pressure" from the opposition.

The road ahead for the Congress is undoubtedly challenging. The party needs to overcome internal divisions, develop a coherent strategy, and effectively communicate its message to the public. Whether it can rise to these challenges and reclaim its position as a major force in Indian politics remains to be seen.