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Introduction

Sonia Gandhi’s recent entry into the Rajya Sabha has set the stage for a unique and intriguing situation within the Congress party. As the chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP), she now shares the Opposition front row with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who she appointed as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP). This arrangement creates a delicate hierarchy where the elected Congress president also holds the position of CPP chairperson—a role traditionally associated with the party chief.

In this blog, we delve into the significance of this hierarchy, its historical context, and the implications for the Congress party.

The Unusual Scenario

1. Dual Roles:
   • Sonia Gandhi’s decision to continue as CPP chairperson after handing over the Congress presidentship to Kharge is unprecedented.
   • Typically, the CPP chairperson position is held by the party chief.
   • Gandhi herself occupied both roles during her nearly two-decade tenure.
2. Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP):
   • The CPP is a forum for Congress MPs in both the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and Rajya Sabha (Upper House).
   • The CPP chairperson leads Congress MPs in both Houses.
3. Leader of the Opposition (LoP):
   • Kharge, as the LoP, leads the Opposition benches.
   • Despite being the Congress president, he follows the CPP chairperson’s lead in parliamentary matters.

Historical Context

1. Sonia Gandhi’s Precedent:
   • In the late ’90s, Sonia Gandhi demonstrated the importance of the CPP chairperson’s role.
   • An amendment was made to the CPP rule book, allowing a non-MP Congress president to become the CPP leader.
   • This move emphasized the CPP chairperson’s supremacy over the party president within the Congress hierarchy in Parliament.
2. Rahul Gandhi’s Interim Leadership:
   • During Rahul Gandhi’s 17-month presidency, Sonia Gandhi continued as CPP chairperson.
   • Some viewed this as a temporary arrangement, with Sonia acting as a buffer for Rahul as he gained acceptability among UPA leaders.

The Test Ahead

1. Parliamentary Hierarchy:
   • The next sitting of the Rajya Sabha will be a test of the Congress’ parliamentary hierarchy.
   • Sonia Gandhi presides over CPP general body meetings, while Kharge shares the podium with her.
   • This arrangement underscores the CPP chairperson’s authority.
2. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury’s Case:
   • Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, like Kharge, functioned as CPP chairperson-nominated party leader in the Lok Sabha.
   • However, Chowdhury’s case differs—he was neither the Congress president nor the designated LoP.

Conclusion

Sonia Gandhi’s dual role as CPP chairperson and Congress president in the Rajya Sabha reflects the delicate balance of power within the party. As the Congress navigates its parliamentary responsibilities, this unique hierarchy will continue to be closely watched by party members and political observers alike.

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Disclaimer: This blog is based on factual information available as of April 6, 2024. The views expressed are those of the author and do not represent any official stance.