Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge to Hold Day-Long Talks with Assam Congress Leaders

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi are set to visit Assam on Wednesday, July 16, in a significant development for the state unit of the Congress party. This visit marks their first trip to Assam since Gaurav Gogoi was appointed as the new President of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC). The visit comes at a critical juncture as the party begins preparations for the 2026 Assam Assembly elections, aiming to rejuvenate its organizational base and consolidate support among its workers and the public.

During the one-day visit, both Kharge and Gandhi are scheduled to participate in two major meetings. One of these will be held in Chaygaon, located approximately 40 kilometers from the state capital, Guwahati. The itinerary includes interactions with various levels of party leadership in the state, such as district, block, and mandal presidents, allowing grassroots leaders to directly share their views, concerns, and expectations with the central leadership.

Gaurav Gogoi, in a statement on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of the visit, describing it as a strong show of solidarity with the people of Assam. He noted that the presence of two top national leaders would boost the morale of Congress workers and underline the party’s commitment to justice, harmony, and inclusive progress. Gogoi added that this visit would strengthen the resolve of every Congress worker, volunteer, and citizen who dreams of a better future for the state.

According to the Congress party’s official communication, Kharge and Gandhi will take part in a number of structured interactions and strategy sessions. The day will begin with the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) meeting, followed by meetings with Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) office bearers, party Members of Parliament (MPs), and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). The visit will culminate in a Congress Workers’ meeting, where the leaders are expected to deliver key messages about the party's vision and roadmap for Assam’s future.

The timing of the visit is particularly significant, as the Congress seeks to consolidate its position in Assam’s political landscape amidst challenges from the ruling BJP and regional parties. The party’s performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and its organizational restructuring under Gaurav Gogoi’s leadership have set the stage for a more active and grassroots-focused approach. By engaging directly with party workers and leaders at multiple levels, Kharge and Gandhi aim to foster unity and strengthen internal coordination ahead of the crucial assembly polls.

Overall, the visit is seen as an effort to reinvigorate the Congress in Assam and to demonstrate a hands-on leadership approach by its central figures. It reflects the party’s renewed focus on regional engagement and organizational empowerment to challenge its political rivals and regain ground in one of India’s politically significant northeastern states.