Since Uttarakhand's inception in 2000, the Indian National Congress (INC) has held a prominent position in the state's political landscape. Instrumental in the statehood movement, the INC emerged as a key player post-Uttarakhand's separation from Uttar Pradesh.
The 2002 Uttarakhand assembly elections marked a significant victory for the Congress, with ND Tiwari assuming the role of Chief Minister, holding the distinction of completing a full term in office.
However, the political tides shifted in 2007, leading to a defeat for the Congress against the BJP. The 2012 elections resulted in a hung assembly, with the Congress securing 32 seats and forming a coalition government with support from various smaller parties and independents.
Yet, this period saw heightened political instability within the Congress administration. Vijay Bahuguna's tenure as Chief Minister, commencing in March 2021, faced criticism and controversies, particularly regarding the handling of the floods of 2013. This ultimately led to Harish Rawat's succession in 2014, amidst internal dissent and external pressures from opposition parties.
Rawat's leadership witnessed tumultuous times, marked by internal dissent and challenges from rival parties, resulting in the imposition of President's Rule twice and Rawat taking oath three times in five years.
The 2017 assembly elections marked another setback for the Congress, as the BJP secured a commanding majority of 57 out of 70 seats, relegating the Congress to a distant second.
The Congress continues to remain the only significant opposition to the BJP in the state's political landscape, focusing on issues such as social welfare, rural development, and empowerment of marginalized communities in its political campaigns.
As Uttarakhand prepares for upcoming elections, the Congress is expected to intensify its efforts to reconnect with voters, consolidate its support base, and present a credible alternative to the ruling BJP.
The party's ability to navigate internal challenges, mobilize grassroots support, and articulate a compelling vision for the state's future will be critical in shaping its electoral prospects and political relevance in Uttarakhand.
Lok Sabha elections: The party has decided to field candidates through its INDIA alliance, including Jot Singh Guntsola (Tehri Garhwal), Pradeep Tamta (Almora, SC), Ganesh Godiyal (Garhwal), Prakash Joshi (Nainital-Udhamsingh Nagar), and Virendra Rawat (Haridwar).
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