Even as a section of Congress leaders in Maharashtra is reportedly considering approaching the party high command with a demand to replace Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Harshvardhan Sapkal, indications suggest that, the leadership in Delhi is unlikely to entertain such a move. According to highly-placed party sources, some leaders have expressed dissatisfaction over recent developments within the Maharashtra Congress, citing setbacks in local body elections, the party’s perceived weakening influence within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), and what they describe as a lack of effective political strategy and leadership. Some leaders are also said to be lobbying for the top organisational post themselves.

 

However, sources maintain that, the Congress high command, led by Rahul Gandhi and the All India Congress Committee (AICC), is currently focused on strengthening the party’s grassroots structure rather than changing leadership. Party insiders say, the leadership is reluctant to alienate loyalists such as Sapkal at a time when organisational consolidation is a priority. The ongoing Sanghatan Srujan Abhiyan reflects this strategy. Under the campaign, emphasis is being placed on strengthening the organisation from the grassroots level, with greater participation of ordinary party workers in leadership selection. The recent appointment of Praful Gudadhe as Nagpur City Congress President is being cited as an example. Party observers reportedly gathered feedback from grassroots workers before finalising the appointment. Sources further indicated that, the high command has adopted a stricter approach towards organisational discipline.

 

This was evident in the swift suspension of Shailesh Agrawal from Wardha and Sahebrao Kamble from Yavatmal after both withdrew from the Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) election without informing the party leadership. Agrawal and Kamble had been fielded against BJP candidate Arun Lakhani and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) candidate Dushyant Chaturvedi, respectively. Party leaders say, such prompt disciplinary action marks a departure from the Congress’ earlier tendency to delay decisions in similar cases. The leadership has also reportedly instructed party functionaries to remain present at programmes organised by State and city leaders. In cases, where attendance is not possible, prior information must be given to the concerned in-charge.

 

Leaders have also been advised against publicly criticising the party or its policies, with internal forums being the preferred platform for airing grievances. Sources close to the party leadership insist that, there is currently no move to replace Sapkal or any other key office-bearer unless serious issues emerge that could significantly damage the party. They point out that, Sapkal’s appointment was backed by Rahul Gandhi himself, making an immediate leadership change highly improbable. A senior Congress leader remarked that those planning to seek Sapkal’s removal should reconsider, as the high command’s current focus remains firmly on organisational strengthening rather than leadership reshuffles.