India, July 12 -- Leadership reshuffle signals Congress strategy to consolidate Dalit support before crucial Uttar Pradesh elections.
The Congress, which is carrying out a major organisational rejig, has surprised many by appointing Rajendra Pal Gautam as its Uttar Pradesh in-charge, replacing senior Brahmin leader Avinash Pande ahead of the crucial Assembly elections scheduled next year.
Many within the party view the move as an attempt to consolidate Dalit votes, which had backed the INDIA bloc during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, dealing a surprise setback to the ruling BJP in the politically crucial state.
Gautam joined the Congress ahead of the Lok Sabha elections after quitting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). He was subsequently appoint...