Indian National Congress (INC) has unveiled its much-awaited first list of 39 candidates for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The release of the candidate list on March 8, 2024, has set the stage for an intense campaign season, with the Congress aiming to regain its foothold across various states.
Headlining the Congress’ first list are several prominent names, Rahul Gandhi, the former party president, will once again contest from the Wayanad constituency in Kerala.
Additionally, the Congress has formed the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) with 26 parties, aiming to forge an anti-BJP front.
His candidature reaffirms the Congress’ commitment to the southern state, where it seeks to consolidate its support base.
Additionally, the list features Shashi Tharoor, the former Union minister and acclaimed author, who will seek re-election from Thiruvananthapuram, his current stronghold.
Tharoor’s inclusion highlights the Congress’ strategy to leverage the star power and mass appeal of its high-profile leaders in crucial constituencies.
Congress’ Regional Prowess
The Congress has strategically included regional stalwarts in its initial roster, reflecting its determination to bolster its presence across key states.
Bhupesh Baghel, the former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, will contest from Rajnandgaon, while Tamradhwaj Sahu, a former minister in the state, will run from Mahasamund.
This move underscores the party’s resolve to regain its foothold in the Hindi heartland states, where it faced setbacks in the previous elections.
Diversity and Representation
Notably, the list comprises 15 candidates from the general category and 24 from the Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and minority communities.
This diverse representation aligns with the Congress’ endeavor to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters and consolidate its support base across various demographics.
By fielding candidates from marginalized communities, the party aims to resonate with the aspirations and concerns of these segments, thereby broadening its electoral appeal.
The Congress faces its most serious crisis since 1951, with its Lok Sabha tally dwindling from over 400 MPs in 1984 to just 84 currently. This gradual decline has been accompanied by challenges in winning state assembly elections.
To revive its fortunes, the party’s campaign strategy includes Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ across the country, focusing on regional issues, youth empowerment, social justice, good governance, economic revival, and healthcare reforms.
Youth at the Forefront
Recognizing the importance of harnessing India’s demographic dividend, the Congress has made youth empowerment and employment a central theme of its campaign.
This is reflected in its candidate selection as well as its marquee promise of the “Right to Apprenticeship” for youth below 25 years on March 8, 2024.
The Congress list includes 12 candidates under the age of 50, highlighting the party’s efforts to infuse fresh energy and ideas into its electoral campaign. Notable young faces include Suresh Kumar Shetkar (Zaheerabad, Telangana), C. Vamshi Chand Reddy (Mahabubnagar, Telangana), and Raghuveer Kunduru (Nalgonda, Telangana), among others. Their inclusion aims to connect with diverse voter segments, particularly the aspirational youth.
Complementing this youth focus, the Congress has announced a groundbreaking initiative – the legal right to apprenticeship for every diploma and degree holder below 25.
This unique proposal promises dignified skilling opportunities through one-year apprenticeships in the private or government sectors, with a monthly stipend of Rs 8,500 (totaling Rs 1 lakh for the year).
The Congress’ approach focuses on enshrining this right in law, underscoring its commitment to job creation and skill development.
Alliances and Coalition
The Congress’ first candidate list also hints at its efforts to forge strategic alliances and coalition arrangements, a crucial aspect of India’s complex political landscape. The party has reportedly reached a deal with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), signaling its intent to broaden its support base and strengthen its position on the national stage.
This move comes in the wake of the PML-N and PPP joining forces in 2022 to oust former Prime Minister Imran Khan and install Shehbaz Sharif as his successor. By aligning with the PPP, the Congress aims to leverage the party’s influence and support base, particularly in the crucial state of Sindh.
Additionally, the Congress has formed the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) with 26 parties, aiming to forge an anti-BJP front.
The release of the Congress’ first list of Lok Sabha candidates sets the stage for an intense electoral battle. While the party aims to regain its foothold across various regions, it faces formidable challenges from its political opponents, including the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
As the campaigning intensifies, the Congress will need to effectively communicate its vision, address pressing issues, and garner widespread support to secure a favorable outcome in the 2024 elections.
Also Read: BJP Announces First List of 195 Candidates for 2024
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