The Congress hassles are unlimited. A summarised version of such an issue raises some comments, observations, questions that demand answers, clarifications. So it continues. Twitter exchanges have limitations. It is not a comprehensive backroom analysis with all inputs.

These exchanges and presentation of views in social media may expose illogical, not so sensible assumptions, assertions, contradictions that float around. The elimination of such confusions is needed. It may bring better clarity to issues and may help in the evolution of solutions.

The failure of the support system, its erosion and organisational weaknesses of the Congress have not started with Rahul as its President. Further, the support system does not limit to his inner circle but also includes various leaders at all levels and to a certain extent its cadres. 

Even in Bihar elections, dissenting leaders give Gandhis a clear chit because of COVID pandemic. They have set tough standards for their top leadership to adhere to. But the question is whether poor performance is due to Gandhis or pandemic or endemic weaknesses of Congress.

Rahul resigned specifically citing the failure of support from its leaders during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. What effort has its leaders taken to address it? Whether the disease is pandemic or endemic, how is it that it only affects Congress and not so much BJP or other parties?

The standards and accountability are fixed only for Gandhis especially Rahul and not for other leaders whether active, inactive or dissenting leaders. The lethargy, overconfidence,  superficial approach and lack of depth of these leaders have ruined the Congress party structure.

The charisma, sacrifice and brand name of Gandhi family and the talents they identified, promoted vertically and horizontally in governance helped them to win elections. Many of its fairweather leaders enjoyed it. But when the weather turned rough they left or blamed Gandhis.

Further, the present challenge is different. They are up against unethical, unscrupulous fascists using every means to subjugate, suppress political opposition and people. Congress failed to take preventive steps; their diagnosis, remedies are wrong; their response is inadequate.

The charisma of the Gandhi family alone is not going to work in the present circumstances. Further, the cumulative organisational weakness built up over several decades is weighing massively against Congress. Rahul is almost left alone to handle the stupendous task.

Rahul’s image is tarnished and painted by those opposed to him. Obama added his version to this. Unfortunately even some Congress leaders endorsed that view in the media. It was Shiv Sena which recorded its objections. Rahul remains unperturbed. It shows his mental strength.

Indira was also called ‘Goonghi Gudia’. Senior Congress leaders left her; split the party; joined opposition ranks. She faced it boldly and won several battles. Those dissenting leaders neither served Congress nor saved themselves but could only polarise, pollute politics.

Rahul is the most wronged person in our recent political history for no fault of his. He has nothing to lose but Congress will if the party does not rally around him; provide him with the strength and confidence to repair structural damages of Congress party and restore its health.

Congress should stop the negativity and build confidence. They have talents available within the party and outside it in abundance. They should not get trapped by past practices, weaknesses. All options, inputs available or generated should be explored, analysed and executed.

Congress leaders should bear in mind that they are fighting a second war of independence. India’s destiny is in their hands. There is not much scope for trial and error. India is not yet a fully established democracy but a flawed democracy due to power-hungry politicians.

They have to outsmart the nano management skills of their enemy.  It is easier for a dictator or fascist to enforce his thoughts; impose his designs; exploit weaknesses of people and democracy than for a true democrat to counter them using democracy. Gandhis are true democrats.