In a significant organizational overhaul, the Indian National Congress has decided to launch an extensive program for political and ideological education targeting its workers at the lowest levels. This strategic push aims to revive the party's morale following the fluctuating outcomes of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and to build a more disciplined and informed cadre.
Institutionalizing Grassroots Training
The party plans to establish dedicated 'training departments' in all state units. These departments will be led by three key individuals chosen for their seniority, deep understanding of the party machinery, and strong ideological commitment. The focus will squarely be on workers and office-bearers at the district, block, and mandal levels, who will undergo regular, structured training sessions.
This initiative aligns with the All India Congress Committee's (AICC) broader 'Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan', a campaign designed to empower District Congress Committees (DCCs) through centrally guided appointments of DCC presidents. The core curriculum for the training will emphasize political education, ideological clarity, and organizational discipline.
Blueprint for Cadre Education
According to an AICC directive sent to state units, strengthening internal training mechanisms is now imperative. The training blueprint will cover several critical subjects:
- Educating workers on the core Congress ideology and values.
- Teaching the history of the Congress and its role in India's nation-building.
- Building a clear understanding of the party's organization, structure, and day-to-day functioning.
- Clarifying the roles, responsibilities, and expected conduct of all political functionaries and office-bearers.
Rahul Gandhi's Confidant at the Helm
The AICC's training department is headed by Sachin Rao, a close confidant of senior leader Rahul Gandhi. Rao is a known advocate for the political education of party workers and has been instrumental behind several fellowship programs launched by the Congress. He has recently been conducting training camps for the newly appointed district presidents under the 'Srijan' process.
Legal 'Rapid Response Force' Formed
Simultaneously, to counter the legal challenges posed by political rivals, the Congress is creating a swift legal defense mechanism. The party is shortlisting five proficient lawyers in every state who are connected to the party and can take up cases at a moment's notice.
This initiative, named the 'Rapid Response Force', is being spearheaded by the AICC's legal, human rights, and RTI department, which is chaired by Abhishek Singhvi. The department has also begun the process of finalizing five names in every district across the country to manage and run its state-level legal units effectively.
These parallel moves—mass ideological training and a streamlined legal force—signal the Congress party's attempt to fortify itself from the ground up and build resilience against external pressures as it strategizes for future electoral battles.
