Kharge Criticizes Government, Says Strategy to Handle Post-Pahalgam Attack Situation Remains Unclear

#News Bureau May2,2025

In the Congress Working Committee Meeting, Leaders Criticized the Centre Over the Pahalgam Terror Attack and Finalized Strategy on the Caste Census: Key Takeaways and the Party’s Future Roadmap

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, during the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, strongly criticized the central government, stating that it lacks a clear strategy to address the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. The attack, which occurred on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed 26 lives. Kharge emphasized that despite political differences, the opposition stands united with the government in the fight against terrorism, sending a message of national solidarity.

The CWC, Congress’s highest decision-making body, convened in New Delhi on May 2 to discuss key national issues, including the Pahalgam attack and the caste census. The meeting saw detailed deliberations and culminated in the passage of two resolutions. Following the session, party leaders held a press conference to clarify their stance on these critical matters.

This CWC meeting was convened at a crucial juncture, as the country grapples with two major issues. First, the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives. The attack further strained India-Pakistan relations and raised serious concerns over the government’s anti-terror policies. Second, the recent announcement of a caste census by the central government, a move the Congress views as a victory for its long-standing demand. The meeting aimed to sharpen the party’s strategy on both fronts and increase pressure on the government.

Pahalgam Attack
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed disappointment that even days after the Pahalgam attack, the government had failed to articulate a clear strategy. He described the incident as a grave challenge to national security and demanded decisive action. The CWC passed a resolution extending full support to the government for strict measures against Pakistan and firm action against terrorism. The resolution also urged the government to ensure justice for the victims and implement robust security measures to prevent future attacks.

The resolution highlights Congress’s dual strategy: showing solidarity with the government on national security, while also criticizing its perceived lack of action. This approach allows Congress to project itself as a responsible opposition, committed to national security, while holding the government accountable. The stance is significant amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions, positioning Congress as both supportive and vigilant on security matters.

Caste Census Issue
The meeting also recognized Rahul Gandhi’s efforts in consistently championing the caste census. Kharge declared that the central government’s decision came after 11 years of Congress-led advocacy, marking a significant victory. However, he pressed the government to clarify its timeline and fund allocation for the census.

The Congress resolved to hold press conferences in every state to ensure that the message reaches the masses—that the caste census is a result of its persistent demand. The caste census is seen as a politically potent issue, especially among Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes. This move could revive Mandal-era politics and strengthen Congress’s image on social justice.

The push for the caste census aligns with Congress’s long-term strategy. The party’s 2024 Lok Sabha manifesto had promised a nationwide caste census and a review of the 50% cap on reservations. Under Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, the issue has already yielded results in states like Telangana, where the Congress oversaw a caste census and raised OBC reservation to 42%.

This strategy offers Congress a renewed opportunity to deepen its reach among backward classes, Dalits, and tribal communities. However, the BJP has countered by dismissing it as a political stunt, signaling that the battle over this issue will intensify. The nationwide press campaign is seen as crucial ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections and future national polls.

Kharge said that the party will have to strengthen its strategy and if necessary, work together with allies. It was also decided in the meeting that issues like Pahalgam attack and caste census will be taken to the public so that pressure can be created on the government.

In the press conference held after the meeting, the Congress leaders further clarified their position. Mallikarjun Kharge targeted the government and said, ‘The government’s silence and inaction on the Pahalgam attack is worrying. We are with the government in the fight against terrorism, but it will have to take concrete steps.’ He praised Rahul Gandhi and said that the decision of caste census is the result of his determination.

Party General Secretary Jairam Ramesh said that the CWC has passed two important resolutions, which give priority to national interest and social justice. He demanded the government to set a deadline for caste census. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinet said in the press conference, ‘Caste census is Rahul Gandhi’s victory. We are committed to removing the limit of 50% reservation and ensuring social justice.’

The Congress CWC meeting on May 2 cleared the party’s strategy on two important issues- the Pahalgam terror attack and the caste census. The resolution on the Pahalgam attack shows a balance of solidarity with and criticism of the government, while the resolution on the caste census reflects the Congress’ commitment to social justice.

It will be important to see in the coming months how the Congress implements these resolutions and whether it is able to further strengthen its credibility among the public.