‘6-time losers should step aside’: Youth leaders in Odisha Congress hit out at senior leadership

The internal conflict within the Congress party in Odisha has escalated, with youth leaders openly questioning the role and relevance of senior leadership. The rift, which had been simmering for some time, widened further after youth leaders of the party accused senior leaders of becoming a major hurdle to the future of young party workers.

The controversy gained momentum after senior Congress leader Mohammed Moquim reportedly wrote a letter to Sonia Gandhi. According to the youth leaders, those who have repeatedly faced electoral defeats should step aside and allow fresh faces to take charge. 

Welcoming Moquim’s move, youth leaders said his concerns reflect the growing frustration among the younger cadre.

“When a leader has lost elections six times, how can he guide the Odisha Congress or lead the party towards victory?” questioned youth leaders of the party. They further argued that continuing with the same leadership will only weaken the party’s prospects.

Also Read: Mohammed Moquim calls for 'Congress reforms' in Odisha, urges senior leaders to make way for youth

The youth brigade of the party also demanded a change in the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president, asserting that the party urgently needs new energy and a new direction. They urged senior leaders to relinquish their positions and give youngsters a fair chance to prove themselves.

“PCC Chief should be someone who can win here, who is potential enough, who can connect with the youth, and who can unite the youth and take everyone forward. At least 35% of voters are youth, so the position should go to someone who can unite all the youth,” said Sangram Majhi, Spokesperson, State Congress.

Despite the growing unrest, the Congress high command and senior state leadership have not reacted to the allegations. The silence from the party’s top brass has only fuelled more speculation about the deepening divide within the organisation.