Politics & Government
Fri, January 23, 2026
Thu, January 22, 2026
Wed, January 21, 2026
Congress Party Faces Political Shift in Puducherry
//politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. s-party-faces-political-shift-in-puducherry.html
Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, January 22nd 2026 at 0:00 GMT by 
The New Indian ExpressLocale: INDIA
A History of Power and Recent Setbacks
The Congress party's absence from power in Puducherry represents a significant shift. For 15 years prior to 2021, the party held sway, establishing a considerable degree of influence and infrastructure. However, a confluence of factors contributed to their defeat, including internal divisions and serious allegations of corruption that eroded public trust. The victory of the All India NR Congress (AINRC), led by N Rangasamy, marked a turning point in the region's political landscape.
Recognizing the need for introspection and course correction, Selvaperuntagavan addressed the past failures head-on. He assured supporters that the party had analyzed its shortcomings and is now prioritizing a renewed commitment to transparency and accountability.
"We will focus on addressing the concerns of the common people and providing them with a government that is accountable and responsive to their needs," he declared, signaling a shift in focus towards grassroots issues and citizen engagement. This promises a stark contrast to the pre-2021 era that contributed to the party's downfall.
The Padyatra: Strategy and Scope
The padyatra is not merely a symbolic gesture. It's a carefully orchestrated campaign designed to re-establish the Congress party's presence at the local level. The extensive scope - encompassing all 38 districts - indicates a concerted effort to reach every corner of Tamil Nadu and connect with voters on a personal level. The grueling nature of a foot march inherently demands interaction with the populace, providing opportunities for impromptu dialogues and community engagement.
Analysts suggest this strategic move is intended to counteract the AINRC's established base and present the Congress party as actively listening to and addressing the needs of the people. The planned culmination of the padyatra with a massive rally in Puducherry serves as a visible demonstration of the support generated during the journey and a direct challenge to the incumbent government's authority.
Looking Ahead
The padyatra is expected to continue for several weeks, with its success largely dependent on the party's ability to consistently engage with voters and articulate a compelling vision for Puducherry's future. The upcoming elections will be a critical benchmark, determining whether this grassroots campaign can translate into a political resurgence for the Congress party and ultimately, a return to power in Puducherry.
Read the Full The New Indian Express Article at:
[ https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2026/Jan/22/congress-launches-state-wide-padyatra-steps-up-campaign-to-unseat-puducherry-government ]
