In a strategic push to revive the Congress’s fortunes, Rahul Gandhi urged party leaders to prioritize winning back the support of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and women during the extended Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting here on Tuesday.

Addressing the gathering, Gandhi emphasized that while the party retains strong backing from Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), regaining the trust of OBCs—comprising nearly 50% of India’s population, including its poorest sections—is critical to returning to power.

Gandhi also highlighted the untapped potential of women voters, who make up half the electorate, urging leaders to tailor outreach efforts to this pivotal demographic. “Only Congress can unite everyone,” he asserted, positioning the party as the sole force capable of ensuring inclusive growth and representation.

The Congress has long championed social justice, advocating for a nationwide caste census and the removal of the 50% reservation cap for SCs, STs, and OBCs to reflect population proportions. These demands, central to the party’s agenda, are set to shape the resolutions at the ongoing AICC convention in Ahmedabad.

With the 2024 electoral setbacks still fresh, Gandhi’s call signals a recalibration of strategy, focusing on equity and empowerment to rebuild the party’s base. As Congress sharpens its narrative, the spotlight now turns to how it will translate rhetoric into action to reclaim its political stronghold.