Nowadays, a clear pattern is visible: some individuals who were previously in the BJP, the moment they feel they will not get a ticket, immediately knock on the doors of Congress or some other party. This is not just a political strategy; it is opportunism. And for this very reason, Congress should avoid giving tickets to such individuals.
The Question of Ideology
The ideologies of Congress and the BJP, their policies, and their visions are fundamentally different. If a person has supported the BJP’s ideology for years and suddenly joins Congress seeking a ticket, an important question arises: do they truly believe in Congress’s values, or are they simply trying to secure their own position? Such individuals can harm the credibility of the party.
There are countless grassroots workers within Congress who have worked tirelessly for years, through heat and rain, without any personal gain. If, instead of them, an outsider is given a ticket simply because they appear “electable,” it is unfair to loyal workers. This leads to frustration and demotivation within the party.
Today’s voters are very aware. People can distinguish between sincerity and opportunism. When a leader switches parties merely for a ticket, their credibility declines in the eyes of the public. If Congress gives tickets to such individuals, it sends a message that winning is more important than principles.
Elections are not just about winning; they are also about building a strong organization. If Congress continues to depend on outsiders every time, how will it develop its internal leadership? For sustainable growth, it is essential that the party promotes its own cadre.
A person who can leave their old party during difficult times can also leave Congress tomorrow. Such individuals create uncertainty rather than providing stable leadership.
This does not mean that new individuals should never be allowed to join. However, allowing entry and giving a ticket are two different things. If someone genuinely joins out of ideological conviction, they should be given time, their commitment should be tested, and they should be allowed to work at the grassroots level. Giving a ticket directly is a shortcut that can harm the party in the long run.
Congress must decide whether it wants to be a strong, principled party or remain in a “survival mode” limited to elections. Giving tickets to opportunistic leaders for short-term gains may win a seat, but in the long run, it weakens the party’s identity and strength.
Therefore, Congress should prioritize its loyal workers and stay away from those who switch parties merely for their political survival. This is not just a strategy but a necessary principle.
