Bhakta Charan Das, a prominent figure within the Indian National Congress, has been appointed as the new President of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. This strategic move intends to invigorate the party's leadership at a time when it faces substantial electoral challenges within the state.
Das, who takes over immediately following the resignation of former president Sarat Pattanayak, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by Kharge, along with senior party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. "I am thankful to Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge for reposing faith on me and giving such a big responsibility," Das remarked, highlighting his readiness to move the party forward.
The reshuffle occurs against the backdrop of the Congress party's struggles to remain relevant, particularly with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) dominating Odisha's political scene and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) increasing its foothold. Das, who has served multiple terms as a Member of Parliament from the Kalahandi constituency, is not new to these challenges. His appointment could serve as part of the Congress's broader strategy to reclaim its ground within the state, especially after the disappointing performance noted during the 2024 elections.
Born on November 26, 1958, and educated at Sambalpur University where he earned his law degree, Das's prior roles include Union Minister of State for Railways and Deputy Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports during significant periods of India's governance. He carries experience as the spokesperson and General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee, underscoring his long-standing commitment to party politics.
“I pledge to collaborate with both young and veteran members of the party to revitalise Congress's presence nationwide. My vision is to bring Congress back to prominence,” he stated, outlining his approach which involves engaging with party members across age demographics.
Das's political career has been marked by advocacy for marginalized communities, particularly tribal populations and farmers. During his tenure as MP between 2009 and 2014, he secured substantial funding for development projects within the Kalahandi and Nuapada districts, aimed at improving opportunities and welfare for these communities. His strong focus on public service has crafted a reputation of trust and efficacy, which he hopes to leverage as he guides the Congress party forward.
Despite the significant trust placed upon him, Das faces considerable tasks awaiting his leadership. The primary challenge lies within overcoming the internal divisions of the Congress party and revitalizing its diminishing support base. With Odisha's political dynamics rapidly shifting, including the BJD's entrenched leadership under Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and the BJP's rising influence, Das has called for unity within the party. "I would appeal to all the State Congress leaders to work together for the welfare and benefit of the people, forgetting all the differences," he noted, urging collaboration as the party embarks on this new chapter.
With the dissolution of the previous state Congress unit last year—prompted by disappointing Lok Sabha and assembly election results—Das's appointment is viewed as both a restorative and innovative measure meant to re-establish party footing. His insistence on connecting with the electorate reflects the grassroots strategy many believe to be pivotal for the Congress's revival.
Das has committed to visiting constituents directly, stating, “I will visit the doorsteps of the people and work at grassroots.” Such intentions may signal the beginning of efforts to deepen the party's relationship with the electorate, focusing on actual challenges faced by citizens rather than relying solely on external political maneuvers.
While Das takes on the mantle of OPCC President, the Congress party aspires to rejuvenate itself, aiming to not just survive but thrive amid fervent competition from other parties. Bhakta Charan Das, with his wealth of experience and commitment to the values of the Congress, stands at the forefront of this renewed effort. How he navigates the choppy waters of Odisha's complex political fabric will determine the party's future and its place among the state’s prominent political forces.