Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Chairperson of the Congress Screening Committee and MP from Wayanad, arrived in Guwahati on Thursday for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening the party’s organisational preparedness ahead of the upcoming Assam Assembly elections.
She was received at Borjhar airport by Gaurav Gogoi, president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), along with other senior party leaders.
Party insiders said the visit is focused on identifying winnable candidates, addressing local issues, and strengthening grassroots coordination ahead of the polls. Leaders also indicated that Gandhi is likely to make several follow-up visits to the state in the coming months as part of the party’s election strategy.
Temple visit and screening meetings
Soon after her arrival, Gandhi visited the revered Kamakhya Temple atop the Nilachal Hills to offer prayers and seek blessings. She later proceeded to Rajiv Bhawan, the headquarters of the APCC on GS Road, where she was welcomed with traditional khol and taal performances.
She was accompanied by senior leaders, including Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia and AICC general secretary in-charge of Assam Jitendra Singh.
During her visit, Gandhi is scheduled to hold extensive screening meetings and interact with members of the party’s Political Affairs Committee. She will also conduct one-on-one discussions with MLAs, MPs, district presidents, and grassroots leaders to assess organisational strength and candidate selection.
Focus on grassroots engagement and political strategy
Congress leaders said the meetings are aimed at ensuring that grassroots workers have a direct platform to voice their concerns and contribute to the party’s electoral planning. Gandhi is also expected to unveil a “charge sheet” against the BJP-led state government, outlining the party’s criticisms and key political issues.
Speaking about the visit, Gogoi said senior leaders’ presence energises party workers and boosts morale.
“This time, our block presidents and grassroots workers will have a proper platform to put forward their views and concerns. Priyanka Gandhi has taken on an important responsibility by making space for these direct interactions,” he said.
The Congress hopes that Gandhi’s visit will strengthen its organisational structure and improve its electoral prospects as political activity intensifies ahead of the Assembly elections.