The Congress faced an unexpected defeat in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, contrary to their anticipated win in at least two states, according to an inside party source. The aftermath led to four consecutive review sessions to dissect the losses in the recent Assembly polls.
The source acknowledged the unprecedented nature of these results, particularly the unexpected losses in Chhattisgarh despite a lack of anti-incumbency in Rajasthan. Polarization surfaced notably in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, impacting the outcomes.
The party's initial hopes for 90 seats in Rajasthan were marred by discontent against sitting MLAs and internal divisions. Despite defensive strategies in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the tribal belts' loss was unforeseen. With limited time until the 2024 general election, preparations for the Lok Sabha polls are underway.
Regarding the caste-based census issue and perceptions about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity, the source dismissed the former's rejection by the people and labeled the latter as a flawed survey. Queries about Rajya Sabha member Dheeraj Sahu's income tax situation were met with statements asserting no ties to his distilleries, with an explanation sought from him.
Key Points:
1. The Congress faced unexpected defeat in the Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan states, contrary to their anticipation of winning at least two of these states.
2. Following these losses, the party conducted consecutive review meetings to analyze the outcomes of the Assembly polls.
3. The election results were termed "unprecedented," particularly the unexpected loss in Chhattisgarh, while polarization was observed in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
4. Despite the absence of anti-incumbency in Rajasthan, dissatisfaction with several incumbent MLAs led to an expectation of 90 seats, but the party was defensively divided due to internal factions.
5. Defensive strategies were not initially anticipated in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, yet the latter witnessed defeats across tribal areas.
6. With the 2024 general elections looming, the Congress faces limited time for preparation, with the election dates anticipated to be announced in March.
7. Despite public rejection of the caste-based census issue, the source clarified that the election results were not a direct dismissal of this agenda.
8. Expectations of an equal split (two-two scenario) in state assembly polls were held by the Congress, which did not materialize.
9. Regarding the Income Tax recovery from Rajya Sabha member Dheeraj Sahu's premises, the party disclaimed any connection to his distilleries and sought clarification from him.
10. Dismissing surveys that declare Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the most popular leader, the source termed them as inaccurate and unsubstantial.
(With Agency Inputs)
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