The Youth Congress has suspended approximately 200 members in a significant disciplinary action for failing to attend the recent rally of the Opposition coalition, INDIA, in New Delhi. Reports indicate that at least 185 members from seven states have received suspension letters, with the organisation requesting explanations for their absence. Sources suggest that this number could potentially rise to 500 as the review continues.

Among those suspended is Rohit Rajoria, a general secretary of the Youth Congress, who expressed his astonishment at the swift action taken against him. Rajoria, who has dedicated 15 years to the party, highlighted his previous sacrifices, including facing multiple FIRs and incarceration during protests. He was removed from his position without an opportunity to explain his absence, which he attributed to attending the 13th-day remembrance of his late uncle.

Rajoria had informed the party leadership in advance about his bereavement, making it clear that he could not attend the rally at Ramlila Maidan on November 1. He questioned the party’s expectations for regaining power under such circumstances, given the punitive measures taken for a single missed event.

Regional Breakdown of Suspensions

The disciplinary measures have been most pronounced in Madhya Pradesh, where 60 members have faced suspension. Following this, Gujarat saw 49 suspensions, while West Bengal recorded 26. Other states affected include Telangana with 14 suspensions, central Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh each with 13, and Haryana with 10.

Prior to the November 1 rally, the Youth Congress had mandated attendance for all members at both the rally and the preceding march. To monitor attendance, the organisation implemented barcode scanners at the Minto Road assembly point, instructing members to check in using its official mobile application, ‘With IYC’.

Despite claims of 15,000 participants gathering at Minto Road, internal data revealed that only 2,831 attendees registered on the application. An internal review cited poor internet connectivity and a lack of technical knowledge among workers as factors contributing to the low registration numbers. Nonetheless, many members reportedly did not attend the event without prior notification.

Response from Youth Congress Leadership

Chib’s remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of the Congress party’s organisational structure. The party’s war room is now reviewing attendance among key members and gathering feedback on district presidents as part of an initiative to identify new leadership. This effort aligns with the party’s goals to enhance its presence and effectiveness ahead of upcoming elections.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has contested the Congress’s claims regarding the rally’s turnout. BJP MP Sambit Patra alleged that a significant portion of the space at Ramlila Maidan remained vacant, countering the Congress’s assertion of high attendance. Patra stated that out of 28,000 chairs, approximately 5,000 to 7,000 were unoccupied during the event.

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