Action should start now

It is a difficult process, but drastic changes have to happen. The scale of the revival and success of Congress depend on it. The first option is for Rahul to open up his mind about his plans; what are the drastic changes needed? What are the obstacles presently?

It can happen anytime before becoming INC President or after or even if he opts out of the election. It has to be a declaration of his intention to bring in changes, sharing his vision for Congress. The best way is to speak out; Truth is on his side. It is his best weapon.

It may hurt some leaders and their egos. Some may adjust; some may fall out of the new line. Will there be any serious challenge to Rahul? When they could not decide on a replacement for two years, how will they challenge him now? There is no chance for it as at present.

There is no need for Rahul to work his way for a leadership position within the party. His popularity and acceptance have only increased over the years. He is already in an unassailable position. There is a near frenzy and clamour for his assuming leadership and initiating actions.

The distress and despair about the inactions of Congress are deep among cadres and supporters. It is unwise to delay actions any further. It may be the most appropriate time to channelise their energy and support to move ahead to initiate whatever corrections needed.

Congress will be otherwise wasting the energy of young, enthusiastic supporters who are rallying around Rahul. He will be disappointing them. All are aware of what is broadly going wrong in the party. They may assess it differently, but they could sense the truth behind failures.

Their cadres and supporters are fully charged now; Congress can open up the floodgates. They are totally behind Rahul. Rahul has the key. The pent-up feelings have risen so much that they want action first and the systemic corrections later. Rahul should channelise it to order.

Need a change in approach

Congress with a liberal tag goes about its task with an orderly, cautious and conservative approach. Most of its present problems generated by this approach. It is out of tune with the current situation and circumstances. Their reaction should be quicker and error-free.

Speaking about the system and its failures, whether internal or external are also part of actions. Why not open out? The truth is on your side. Even people outside the party are anxiously waiting for the rule of truth and order. It will be a refreshing experience for them. 

Rahul can take the lead. It comes naturally to him to speak the truth without any discomfort as he has nothing to conceal. He does not hurt people as he only intends to bring out what is true and right. If the truth hurts some, not telling them will hurt the party and the people.

Rahul applies his mind before making his views. He rarely goes wrong. Even if it happens, why should it be a different yardstick for Rahul? He can also express his opinion, whether as a leader or otherwise. He is also part of democracy and has a right to freedom of expression.

Everyone does not need to be perfectly correct in their expressions. We are taking it too far. If the evidence does not indicate wrong intentions, it should be acceptable. We are not writing judgements. Even courts revise after writing these judgments with systemic support.

His simplicities and naiveties should not affect the party. As a politician, he should try to keep his personal goodness or weaknesses under check to discharge his duty. Every leader, including Rahul, should submit to the party’s good and function within its rules and system.

It may appear to be harsh, but that is the truth. Organisational supremacy should not be lost; its dilution has done enough damage to Congress. It should not allow any kind of individual supremacies; Autocracy will emerge under such a mask. It is already hurting our country.