Congress to ban DCC Presidents from contesting elections

NEW DELHI: The Congress party is considering imposing a ban on District Congress Committee (DCC) presidents contesting elections as part of a strategy to strengthen the party at the grassroots level. An official announcement on this matter is expected during the All India Congress Committee (AICC) meeting scheduled for April 8 and 9 in Ahmedabad. Ahead of this, a meeting of DCC presidents was convened in Delhi, which will continue on Friday.

The proposal is based on recommendations submitted by AICC General Secretary Mukul Wasnik, aiming to strengthen the grassroots by focusing on the districts. Under the proposed guidelines, DCC presidents will not be allowed to contest any elections for the first three years of their five-year tenure. However, they will be given priority for Rajya Sabha nominations when vacancies arise. The move also aims to shift the power dynamics within the party, ensuring that DCC presidents play a crucial role in selecting candidates for key elections rather than senior leaders unilaterally making those decisions. Additionally, district committees may be given the authority to nominate DCC presidents, though under the supervision of the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC).

DCC presidents from 13 states, including Kerala, and three Union Territories are currently in Delhi for discussions. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized the crucial role of DCC presidents, describing them as the "generals" leading the party at the grassroots level. He stated that their appointments should not be based solely on regional leader recommendations but rather on merit, commitment, and hard work.

Kharge also urged DCC presidents to ensure the success of party candidates in the 2026 elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, and Tamil Nadu. Additionally, he stressed the importance of monitoring voter list irregularities to safeguard the party’s electoral prospects.