New Delhi: The Indian National Congress has officially appointed Bhakta Charan Das as the President of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC), effective immediately. This announcement, made on February 11, 2025, through a press release issued by AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, marks a significant shift within the party structure as it aims to revamp its state units.
Bhakta Charan Das is not new to politics; he has previously served as both Member of Parliament and Union Minister. His political career has been notable, especially as he represented the Kalahandi constituency during the 15th Lok Sabha. Despite his extensive experience, he has faced challenges at the polls, with continuous losses impacting his recent electoral performance.
The move to appoint Das follows the previous committee's dissolution last year, which was instigated by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge due to disappointing results from both Lok Sabha and assembly elections in Odisha. The party is determined to make its organization more dynamic and effective as it shifts focus toward restructuring its state units.
"Congress President has appointed Shri Bhakta Charan Das as the President of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee, with immediate effect," read the statement from the AICC, underscoring the party’s commitment to rejuvenate its local leadership.
Bhakta Charan Das takes over from Sarat Pattanayak, who led the state unit before its disbandment, reflecting the party's recognition of the need for change after losing ground electorally. The Congress party has been under pressure to strengthen its position, especially as it prepares for upcoming elections.
Alongside Das’s appointment, the Congress expressed gratitude to Shivajirao Moghe for his service as the outgoing chairman of the All India Adivasi Congress, appointing Vikrant Bhuria as his successor. This dual announcement highlights the Congress's aim to consolidate leadership roles within its ranks and reinforce its commitment to connect with diverse voter groups across the region.
The reshuffling within the Congress follows broader electoral trends, as regional parties and local leaders gain prominence, challenging the Congress’s long-standing position. By appointing leaders with local connections, like Das, the Congress hopes to regain trust and relevance among voters who may feel neglected by national party agendas.
With Bhakta Charan Das at the helm, Congress is signaling its readiness to tackle internal challenges and external pressures as it pushes for organizational effectiveness and strives to recover its footing in Odisha’s political arena. Party insiders suggest this could be the beginning of a more aggressive strategy aimed at winning back voter support.
Das's appointment could also be seen as part of the Congress's larger strategy to strengthen its representation among marginalized groups, particularly Dalits, considering Das's background. This direction aligns with the Congress's historical roots of championing social justice and equality, and it may resonate well with the electorate this time.
The months leading up to the elections will be critically important for Das and his team. They will need to navigate party dynamics, address previous setbacks, and formulate effective strategies to engage voters across demographics. The stakes are high as the Congress seeks not just to maintain its relevance but to reclaim its standing against formidable rivals.
Bhakta Charan Das’s leadership may mark the dawn of renewed efforts within the Congress to re-establish itself as the primary opposition party, not just in Odisha but across India. The impacts of his presidency will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike, as the Congress aims to reinvent itself and re-energize its base.
Das steps forward as the Congress embarks on this new chapter, enveloped by both hope and skepticism, ready to confront the challenges of today's political climate.