AS India gears up for another round of elections, the political landscape seems to be undergoing a subtle yet significant shift. At the centre of this transformation is Rahul Gandhi who despite facing setbacks in the past has emerged with a stronger sense of purpose but leaves one question hanging in the air – has this resurgence come too late for himself and his party? Previously criticised for his lack of drive and charisma, he now exudes determination as he traverses the length and breadth of the country, addressing crowds with fluency and conviction. His evolution from a hesitant speaker reflects a deeper transformation within himself and the Congress party he represents.
However, Rahul’s resurgence comes at a time when the political landscape of India is undergoing tectonic shifts. The dominance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reshaped the contours of Indian politics, with the BJP’s blend of ideology and development resonating strongly with some voters. In contrast, Congress has struggled to articulate a coherent message that can effectively challenge the BJP’s narrative. Despite this, Rahul’s focus on issues of inequality, unemployment, and democratic values has struck a chord with certain sections of the electorate.