- Cong’s New State Executive: Digvijaya’s Influence Endures
Administrative Correspondent, Bhopal
In a recent shake-up within the Congress party’s leadership in Madhya Pradesh, key leaders Ajay Singh and Arun Yadav appear to have experienced a decrease in influence, while former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh maintains his status. The long-awaited formation of the 177-member state executive, led by state president Jitu Patwari, has brought about mixed reactions within party ranks. Despite efforts to balance factional interests, some leaders and their supporters feel marginalized.
Delayed Announcement Raises Questions
For the past ten months, Congress supporters in Madhya Pradesh have awaited the announcement of the state executive under Jitu Patwari. This delay was initially anticipated to conclude before the Lok Sabha elections, yet it stretched on, leading to growing anticipation and speculation. With the high command entrusting Patwari with state leadership, it was expected that he would bring in a strong, unified team to strengthen the Congress’s position. Now that the team has been unveiled, some internal discontent has surfaced.
The 177-member “jumbo” executive team has been met with skepticism regarding its composition. This has prompted assurances from party leaders that roles beyond the executive structure will be established to ensure all major leaders have responsibilities in different capacities. However, the initial sidelining of key factions remains a point of contention.
Ajay Singh, Arun Yadav’s Influence Wanes
Ajay Singh, a senior Congress leader from the Vindhya region, has seen his influence wane within state politics, with his supporters receiving minimal representation in Patwari’s team. Similarly, Arun Yadav, a prominent leader from the Nimar region, has faced a reduction in his political sway. His followers have also been overlooked, leading to concerns about the unity of the party’s leadership in Madhya Pradesh.
This apparent sidelining of influential leaders such as Singh and Yadav raises questions about how the Congress leadership will manage these dynamics going forward. Both leaders, known for their strong regional bases, are significant voices within the party and have considerable local support. Whether they will continue to work closely with the new leadership or navigate the evolving power structure independently remains to be seen.
Nakul Nath’s Absence Sparks Speculation
The absence of Nakul Nath, son of former Chief Minister Kamal Nath, from the new executive has drawn attention. In contrast, Digvijay Singh’s son, Jaivardhan Singh, has been appointed state vice-president, reflecting a disparity in representation. Speculation has arisen as to why Nakul Nath was excluded from any significant role in the new structure, especially given his father’s stature within the party.
Some party insiders view this as an implicit message to Kamal Nath, whose influence within the state appears to be declining. Following Congress’s sweeping defeat in the last Lok Sabha elections, including Nakul Nath’s loss in the Chhindwara constituency—a traditional Congress stronghold—the former Chief Minister’s stature has reportedly diminished both in Madhya Pradesh and within the central leadership. This recent exclusion might underscore the high command’s shifting approach to Kamal Nath’s leadership in the state.
Kantilal Bhuria’s Family Maintains Strong Standing
In contrast, the family of former state president Kantilal Bhuria has retained prominence within the new executive. Bhuria’s son, MLA Vikrant Bhuria, has been appointed general secretary, affirming his standing within the party. Meanwhile, former Union Minister Arun Yadav has been appointed as an executive member, though his brother Sachin Yadav holds the role of vice-president. The differing roles allotted to the Bhuria and Yadav families suggest an attempt to manage regional loyalties, albeit unevenly.
Balancing Act for Jitu’s Leadership
Patwari’s attempt to address the demands of various factions within the Madhya Pradesh Congress seems to have met with partial success. By including supporters of prominent figures such as Digvijaya Singh and Kamal Nath, the new executive reflects a balancing act aimed at retaining experienced leaders while introducing fresh voices. However, the decision to sideline key figures like Ajay Singh and Arun Yadav, along with the exclusion of Nakul Nath, highlights an underlying tension that the party must navigate carefully.
