Directionless Drift: Why Congress Struggles to Lead the Opposition

The Congress party, once India’s dominant political force, continues to falter in its role as the leading Opposition. After three consecutive national election defeats — in 2014, 2019, and now 2024 — the party’s decline appears both structural and strategic. In 2024, there were signs of an Opposition resurgence, but this was largely attributed to regional allies and the broader INDIA bloc, not Congress itself.

Despite its national presence, Congress lacks a clear ideological stance, decisive leadership, and effective communication. Internal divisions, leadership indecisiveness, and failure to energize grassroots workers have severely weakened its credibility. The party’s campaign in 2024 was inconsistent and overshadowed by stronger, more agile partners.

While Congress did marginally improve its seat count, it was often seen as a burden rather than a driver within the INDIA coalition. The party’s reluctance to cede space to regional players or adapt to coalition realities further hampered the Opposition’s strength.

To reclaim relevance, Congress must undergo deep structural reform, embrace coalition politics with humility, and reconnect with India’s evolving electorate. Without urgent course correction, the party risks further irrelevance, even as the political space for a strong Opposition remains wide open.