At the AICC (All India Congress Committee) session in Ahmedabad on April 9, the Congress party came down heavily on the BJP-led central government. In its key resolution titled ‘Nyay Path’ (Path of Justice), the party outlined its vision for the country and sharply criticized the ruling regime for its performance in crucial areas like foreign policy, economy, and agriculture.
On the foreign policy front, Congress accused the government of weakening India's global standing. The party said that past Congress governments had always followed a wise and balanced foreign policy, aimed at protecting national interests and promoting peace. In contrast, it claimed the current government is more interested in promoting the personal image of the Prime Minister rather than the country’s interests.
The resolution highlighted China’s illegal occupation of Indian territory in Eastern Ladakh and said the government has failed to take meaningful action. It also raised concern over China’s plan to build a massive dam on the Brahmaputra River, warning that it could seriously affect the northeastern states. The rise of radical groups in Bangladesh was also flagged, with Congress expressing concern for the safety of religious minorities like Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.
Congress criticized the government’s silence on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza caused by the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. It reaffirmed its support for a peaceful solution and the creation of a separate Palestinian state, as per United Nations resolutions.
While emphasizing the importance of strong ties with the United States, the resolution stated that such a relationship should never come at the cost of national interest. Congress pointed out that Indian goods are now facing a 27% tariff in the U.S., and Indian migrants have faced inhumane treatment, including being deported in chains. The party urged the government to negotiate with the U.S. responsibly, taking all stakeholders into confidence.
On agriculture, the Congress party reiterated its commitment to farmers and promised to pass a law guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. It proposed that MSP should be set at least 50% above the cost of production. The party recalled its legacy of pro-farmer policies and its leadership in the Green and White Revolutions. It also pledged to work toward freeing farmers from debt and ensuring a secure future for them.
The state of the economy was another major area of criticism. Congress described it as a “sinking ship” and blamed the current government for rising inequality and the suffering of common citizens. It contrasted the present with the years between 2004 and 2014, when, under Congress leadership, the country saw 8% average GDP growth and millions were lifted out of poverty. The resolution claimed that today’s policies are only benefiting a few rich industrialists, while most Indians struggle to make ends meet.
The widening wealth gap was highlighted—where 10% of Indians now own 70% of the country’s wealth, while the bottom 50% hold just 6.4%. The party also criticized the government for not conducting the Census since 2011, which it said has led to millions being excluded from welfare programs like the Right to Food.
Unemployment was described as a growing crisis, with nearly 30 lakh government jobs left vacant and jobless youth across the country facing an uncertain future. Congress warned that the failure to provide opportunities could turn the country’s demographic dividend into a demographic disaster, as many young people are falling into depression and addiction due to frustration and lack of hope.
The party also strongly condemned recent price hikes. It pointed out that while global crude oil prices have fallen, the government has still raised the price of petrol and diesel by ₹2 per litre. Additionally, a ₹50 increase in LPG cylinder prices has added financial pressure to millions of households. Congress accused the government of exploiting citizens and worsening their everyday struggles.
The session ended with the party announcing 2025 as the “Year of Organisational Empowerment.” Congress leaders said they were committed to rebuilding the party structure at all levels and preparing to challenge what they described as an unjust and arrogant government. (PR)