- Digvijaya Remarks Spark Debate
- Revanth Defends Sonia Leadership
- Controversy within Congress
Article Today, Hyderabad:
The Congress party witnessed renewed internal friction following remarks by senior leader Digvijay Singh on social media. His comments, which appeared to acknowledge the organisational strength of the BJP and the RSS, triggered sharp reactions within the party. The episode has reopened an old debate on leadership versus organisational structure in the Congress.
Digvijay Singh’s Social Media Post
In his post, Digvijay Singh shared an old photograph showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi seated on the ground beside senior BJP leader L.K. Advani. He stated that Modi’s rise from a grassroots worker to Prime Minister reflected the institutional strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the Bharatiya Janata Party. The remarks immediately drew criticism from several Congress leaders.
Revanth Reddy’s Sharp Response
However, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy responded firmly. He asserted that the Congress had its own tradition of nurturing leaders from ordinary backgrounds. According to him, it was under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi that individuals without elite political lineage rose to the highest office.
Examples from Congress History
In addition, Revanth Reddy cited the elevation of P. V. Narasimha Rao, who hailed from a remote village in Telangana, as Prime Minister. He also recalled the appointment of renowned economist Manmohan Singh to the same post. These examples, he said, reflected the inclusive leadership approach of the Congress under Sonia Gandhi.
Ideological Fault Lines Exposed
Meanwhile, the exchange highlighted contrasting views within the party. One section continues to emphasise the centrality of the Nehru-Gandhi leadership, while another stresses the need for stronger organisational mechanisms. The divergence has once again brought internal ideological fault lines into public view.
Reactions from Party Leaders
The remarks also drew criticism from Congress MP Manickam Tagore, who rejected any suggestion that the party should learn from the RSS. He accused the organisation of promoting divisive ideology. At the same time, Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor offered qualified support to Digvijay Singh, stating that organisational strengthening and internal debate were necessary for the party’s revival.
Timing Adds to Discomfort
Therefore, the controversy has caused discomfort within the Congress, coming as it does during celebrations marking the party’s 140th foundation anniversary. While the leadership has not issued an official statement, the episode has underscored continuing challenges in balancing unity, leadership authority, and organisational reform within the party.
