Saroj Nagi

In formally handing over the reins to new Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, his mother has also bequeathed to him a set of critical challenges.

The Congress's loss in state and recent local polls says it all.

A new regime would dismantle the edifice set up by the party with a heady mix of religious polarisation and development.

It will test whether the new set of subaltern leaders in the state have in them the power to hold on.

They constitute nearly 25 per cent of the state's population.

There are examples within the grand old party where an extensive yatra has helped a leader strengthen his base.

Optics of Sonia occupying centre-stage among leaders gladdens the hearts of battered Congressmen.

Where are the sustained field-level agitations? Where are the attempts to re-connect with workers, voters and masses?

Cast an eye on the recent events.

Dangerously for the Congress, it can be misconstrued as an attempt to soften the PM's stance in the AgustaWestland probe.

Why do leaders or their supporters seek familial relationships? What do they hope to achieve? Is there a method to it?

It has been a truth universally acknowledged that she would hand over the baton to her son.

Are they trying to send a message to the public?

Is there a method in what he is doing?

Even while targeting BJP, parties are competing with each other to be seen as the most virulent critic of the half-baked move.

There will be no Sonia to shield him once he becomes Congress president.

With anger and confusion prevailing over the strategist's role and mandate, it is time for the party leadership to clear the air.

With her entry into the poll fray, there would be three Gandhis running the show at the same time.