Amid the uncertainty in seat-sharing negotiations within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, the Congress finds itself grappling with renewed internal factionalism.
Several senior leaders of the Maharashtra Congress have been holding secret meetings, strategising to secure key positions, influential ministerial portfolios and key administrative roles, including the coveted Chief Minister’s post, should the MVA manage to reclaim power, according to party insiders.
Considering Congress’s impressive performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections, the party’s leadership is experiencing a surge in confidence, leading them to push for a larger share in seat allocation within the MVA. This renewed sense of ambition has, however, deepened the power struggle and divisions within the party as leaders vie for prominence ahead of the polls.
SECRET MEETINGS WITH SUPPORTERS, RACE FOR CM’S POST
One of the most pressing concerns for the Congress is the allocation of the Chief Minister’s post. Senior leaders have been actively lobbying to build internal alliances to strengthen their claim to the top office.
These leaders have also been reaching out to potential candidates, with some being offered ministerial roles or lucrative positions on boards and committees in exchange for their backing, said sources.
The lack of a finalised seat-sharing agreement within the MVA has created additional pressure on Congress leaders, prompting them to pursue personal ambitions while attempting to balance the party’s collective interests. In recent weeks, several senior leaders have been seen conducting private meetings with their supporters, discussing election strategies, and reviewing the party’s campaign preparations.
The Congress leadership in Delhi has reportedly been made aware of these secretive dealings, signalling that internal power struggles in Maharashtra are escalating. While the high command has attempted to maintain a unified front, the internal friction threatens to undermine the party’s electoral prospects if not addressed in time.
MVA IMPACT
Adding to the tension is the unresolved issue of seat distribution between the Congress, the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the three members of the MVA.
Congress leaders, buoyed by the party’s performance in the national elections, are demanding a larger share of constituencies, hoping to capitalise on their momentum. This has led to protracted negotiations within the alliance, further straining relations between the parties.
Several Congress officials have confirmed that a preliminary list of potential candidates has already been drawn up, with senior leaders preparing to conduct interviews with these candidates in the coming days. While the final list of candidates is expected to be released soon, party insiders believe that the internal factionalism could delay these announcements as various factions within Congress jostle for control over key constituencies.
These power struggles have placed Congress’ state leadership under increasing pressure. The party’s leaders in Maharashtra now face the difficult task of managing internal dissent while also negotiating a favourable deal within the MVA.
Failure to address these internal divisions could weaken the party’s prospects, potentially handing an advantage to its political rivals, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction.
As the elections approach, it remains to be seen whether the Congress leadership will be able to contain the growing factionalism and present a united front. The outcome of these internal power struggles could significantly impact the party’s performance in the upcoming assembly elections and shape its future role in Maharashtra politics.
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