UP Congress factionalism resurfaces ahead of Polls

Instead of a peaceful transition of power, the Congress headquarters witnessed a scuffle between rival groups during the handover ceremony. 

Months ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, factionalism within the Congress has once again come to the fore, raising questions about whether the party’s latest leadership reshuffle can translate into organisational unity or whether competing groups will continue to undermine its efforts to rebuild its presence in the state.

The change in the state leadership, intended to strengthen the organisation and improve coordination with alliance partner Samajwadi Party (SP), has been followed by a public confrontation at the Congress headquarters in Lucknow. The dispute between supporters of former state president Ajay Rai and Mahila Congress leader Mamta Chaudhary has exposed the internal divisions that the party must address as it prepares for the crucial electoral battle.

Following his removal from the state president’s post, Rai has reportedly withdrawn from party activities and switched off his mobile phone. There is also speculation within political circles that he could explore an association with Apna Dal (Sonelal) leader Anupriya Patel, although no formal move has been confirmed. Meanwhile, the Congress high command has summoned Rai to Delhi, to meet and share the development with Rahul Gandhi and other senior leaders. The meeting assumes significance amid Rai’s absence from Rahul Gandhi’s recent march in Delhi and the confrontation that erupted during the leadership transition at the Lucknow headquarters.

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