The Maharashtra Congress has launched a major restructuring drive to rebuild its organisation at the grassroots level. The initiative, called ‘Sangathan Srujan Abhiyan’, comes amid criticism from party workers over the lack of change and the continued dominance of the same leaders in key roles.
As part of this revamp, the party is finalising names for 72 district presidents across the state. In a significant shift from past practices, the Congress will now also appoint taluka (block) presidents, covering around 675 talukas.
First ever taluka-level appointments
For the first time in its history, the party will directly select taluka presidents instead of leaving the decision to district leaders. This move, initiated by state Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal, aims to reduce internal groupism and make the selection process more transparent.
Each taluka will also have heads for 10 different frontal organisations and departments, including Youth Congress, NSUI, Mahila Congress, Seva Dal, and representatives from OBC, SC, ST, minority, and social media wings.
Expanding leadership base
The restructuring exercise is expected to provide organisational roles to more than 7,000 party workers, significantly expanding the leadership base. Observers appointed by the party will recommend at least three names for each position, with the final decision taken by the central leadership.
The Congress plans to appoint nearly 8,000 office bearers within the next two months, including both district and taluka-level leaders.
Replacing old faces with new leadership
The revamp is part of a broader effort led by Rahul Gandhi to rejuvenate the party by strengthening its connection with grassroots workers. The new structure will prioritise youth leadership and improve representation of OBCs, Dalits, Adivasis, minorities, and women.
Sapkal said the party will focus on two key principles: building the organisation based on ideology and raising issues affecting the public.
In a major change, 45 out of 60 district presidents are set to be replaced, along with appointments in 12 newly created organisational districts. Leaders who have held posts for over five years will step aside to make way for new faces.
Party leaders have said this move is not about removing senior leaders but about giving opportunities to new leadership and strengthening the organisation.
Preparing for future elections
The Congress believes this organisational overhaul will help rebuild its grassroots strength and prepare the party for the 2029 Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. By expanding its base and bringing in fresh leadership, the party aims to improve its performance in future polls.
