The Congress Party, which had stalled parliamentary proceedings for nearly six days demanding a discussion on allegations of corruption against industrialist Gautam Adani, suddenly shifted its stance. As a result, both Houses of Parliament functioned smoothly on Tuesday. This unexpected move has raised questions about the reasons behind Congress stepping back from its confrontation on the Adani issue.
Internal Discontent and Lack of Support
Reports suggest internal disagreements within Congress over pursuing the Adani issue. Additionally, the party struggled to garner adequate support from its allies. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had urged his party MPs to raise the matter in Parliament after allegations surfaced in the US about bribes paid to officials to secure solar energy contracts. Since the start of the parliamentary session, Congress focused solely on the Adani controversy, stalling proceedings repeatedly.
Criticism from Allies
Congress allies expressed dissatisfaction with the party's strategy of paralyzing parliamentary proceedings over Adani. On Monday, parties like the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Trinamool Congress (TMC) distanced themselves from Congress's protest. The TMC demanded discussions on issues like unemployment, inflation, and alleged discrimination in fund allocation to opposition-ruled states. Meanwhile, the SP pushed for debates on incidents like the Shamli Jama Masjid tragedy, which claimed five lives.
Even within Congress, Lok Sabha MPs reportedly voiced dissatisfaction with the party's focus on Adani, feeling sidelined by Rajya Sabha members dominating parliamentary strategy. According to an English daily, some Congress MPs argued that they, as elected representatives, are accountable to the people, unlike party-appointed Rajya Sabha members.
Disconnect with the Public
Congress MPs believe that ordinary citizens are not particularly concerned about the Adani issue. Despite the party’s efforts to raise the matter both inside and outside Parliament, public response has been underwhelming. Consequently, MPs feel the party is missing opportunities to corner the government on pressing public issues by fixating on the Adani controversy.
This change in Congress’s strategy highlights both internal challenges and a misalignment between the party’s priorities and public sentiment.
