As the 2024 general election draws nearer, the Congress party has intensified its preparations, aiming to unveil its initial list of candidates by the end of this week. In a flurry of activity, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) screening committees are currently engaged in the crucial task of shortlisting potential candidates across various constituencies. These lists will soon be forwarded to the Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) for final deliberation and selection.
The CEC's first meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, will primarily focus on scrutinizing candidates for key states such as Chhattisgarh, Kerala, and Telangana. While the party intends to maintain continuity by renominating most sitting Members of Parliament (MPs), there's also a keen interest in injecting fresh faces into the electoral fray, based on insights gathered from recent surveys.
The impending announcement of nearly 200 BJP candidates has added urgency to the Congress's strategic planning. Consequently, the party's leadership is expected to expedite the announcement of its own contenders in the coming days.
Highlighting the meticulous process, sources reveal that the AICC screening committees aim to finalize their shortlists within two days, paving the way for the CEC to make conclusive decisions. In states like Kerala, where the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) and AICC screening committee have recommended the re-nomination of 15 sitting MPs, including Rahul Gandhi, the party is treading carefully, weighing various factors including local dynamics and electoral viability.
While a significant number of incumbent Lok Sabha MPs are likely to be renominated, the party is diligently considering the recommendations put forth by state PCCs and screening committees. These recommendations will be cross-referenced with the findings of internal surveys conducted by the Sunil Kanugolu panel, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of potential candidates.
With the Election Commission expected to formally announce the election schedule around March 10, the Congress is swiftly moving to finalize its election-related committees. Among these, the Congress manifesto committee is currently deliberating on proposals and promises aimed at addressing the concerns of diverse voter segments. These promises are anticipated to encompass a wide range of issues, including women's rights, unemployment, agriculture, education, and social welfare, alongside offering tax incentives to key sectors such as Information Technology (IT) and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Moreover, the Congress is actively engaged in negotiations with its allies in crucial states like Maharashtra and Bihar, aiming to solidify seat-sharing agreements before the election announcement. The recent defection of the Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] led by Nitish Kumar to the BJP camp has reshaped the political landscape in Bihar, prompting the Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) to revise its demands for seats. As discussions continue, the Congress remains optimistic about forging alliances that can maximize its electoral prospects.
In sum, as the countdown to the 2024 general election begins, the Congress party is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to present a formidable challenge to its opponents. With meticulous candidate selection, strategic alliance-building, and a comprehensive manifesto, the Congress aims to emerge as a credible alternative, poised to address the aspirations and concerns of the Indian electorate.