GujaratPolitics – Congress Eyes Pilot to Lead State Revival
GujaratPolitics – The political atmosphere in Gujarat is heating up as major parties reassess leadership and campaign plans ahead of the upcoming local body elections. With weeks to go before voters head to the polls, internal discussions and fresh controversies are shaping the state’s political narrative.
Congress Considers Leadership Overhaul in Gujarat
The Congress leadership is reportedly evaluating a significant organisational reshuffle in Gujarat, with senior leader Sachin Pilot emerging as a potential choice to guide the state unit. Party insiders suggest that the move is aimed at reinvigorating the cadre and presenting a renewed face before the electorate.
If the proposal moves forward, Pilot would replace the current state leadership at a critical juncture. The strategy reflects the central command’s effort to introduce a relatively young and nationally recognised figure to counter the Bharatiya Janata Party’s strong grassroots network in Gujarat.
This would mark the third instance of a prominent Rajasthan-based leader being assigned responsibility for Gujarat’s political affairs, underlining the seriousness with which the Congress views the upcoming elections. Observers believe the plan is designed to reshape public perception and rebuild the party’s competitiveness in a state where it has struggled to regain momentum in recent years.
The Congress has yet to make an official announcement, but discussions at the national level indicate that the party is keen on projecting stability and renewed direction.
Internal Strains Surface in AAP’s Gujarat Unit
Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party’s Gujarat unit is facing turbulence following claims made by former party member Raju Karpada. Once considered a prominent farmer face within the party, Karpada has alleged deep divisions between MLA Gopal Italia and state president Isudan Gadhvi.
According to Karpada, tensions intensified after Gadhvi’s elevation within the state organisation. He alleged that Italia was displeased with the decision and that disagreements escalated beyond private conversations. The claims include accusations that party workers were encouraged to stage protests expressing dissatisfaction.
These allegations point to a widening rift at a time when organisational unity is crucial. While no official confirmation has come from the party leadership regarding these claims, the controversy has sparked debate about internal coordination and discipline within the Gujarat unit.
Political analysts note that such public disputes could affect grassroots morale, particularly as election preparations gather pace. Maintaining cohesion will likely be a priority for the party leadership in the coming weeks.
Assembly Photograph Sparks Political Debate
A separate controversy has also drawn attention in the state Assembly. A photograph showing AAP MLAs Gopal Italia and Hemant Khawa smiling alongside Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai during a recent session has circulated widely on social media.
The image surfaced shortly after the presentation of Gujarat’s budget, valued at approximately ₹4 lakh crore. Critics questioned the optics of opposition legislators appearing cordial with the minister while publicly criticising the government’s financial policies.
Responding to the discussion, Italia clarified that the interaction was related to raising constituency concerns and should not be interpreted as endorsement of the budget. Khawa described the exchange as part of routine democratic engagement within the Assembly.
Adding another layer to the episode is the question of how the photograph was taken, given restrictions on mobile phone use inside the House. Political circles have speculated that the image may have been captured using the minister’s device, though no official confirmation has been issued.
As Gujarat approaches crucial local body elections, these developments underscore the intense political activity unfolding across parties. Leadership changes, internal disputes, and public perceptions are likely to play a defining role in shaping campaign narratives in the weeks ahead.