Odisha Congress Leaders Unanimously Accept AICC's Decision for New PCC Chief Appointment

Senior Congress leaders in Odisha have agreed to accept whoever the party high command appoints as the new state unit chief. This decision came after a meeting led by Congress election committee member Charan Das Mahant. The meeting included former OPCC presidents, MLAs, and MPs. The position has been vacant for over three months since the AICC dissolved the state unit.

Mahant stated that the resolution was passed unanimously, with all leaders agreeing to support the high command's choice for the OPCC leader. He mentioned that the appointment would likely occur after the Jharkhand assembly election results on November 23. "Sonia ji, Rahul ji, and Kharge ji are aware of the party's situation in Odisha," he noted.

Focus on Leadership and Performance

During discussions, leaders emphasized the need for a strong figure to lead Congress in Odisha. Some suggested prioritizing those who performed well in past panchayat and urban elections. Others proposed a collective leadership approach. Mahant assured that these views would be communicated to the high command for their final decision.

The selection committee plans to submit its report after visiting Odisha. However, Mahant indicated that any review of this report would occur post-Jharkhand election results. Further discussions with the high command might follow, potentially involving another visit to Odisha if necessary.

Potential Candidates for OPCC Chief

While Mahant refrained from naming potential candidates for the OPCC chief position, insiders suggest several frontrunners. These include former Union ministers Srikant Jena and Bhakta Charan Das, along with former MLA Mohammed Moquim. Koraput MP Saptagiri Ulaka and former OPCC president Prasad Harichandan are also considered possible contenders.

The Odisha Congress is currently managed by a 15-member coordination committee following the dissolution of its state unit by the AICC. This action came after poor performances in both Lok Sabha and assembly elections earlier this year. Consequently, all state office-bearers, including state president Sarat Pattanayak, were dismissed.

All district, block, and divisional committees within Odisha were also dissolved as part of this restructuring effort. The party aims to rejuvenate its leadership and strategy in the state through these changes.