In the Latest News from India’s political scene, four major states — Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Assam — are preparing for Assembly elections in April and May 2026. For the Congress party, this is not just another election season. It is a big opportunity to make a strong comeback after facing setbacks in recent polls.
After losing the 2025 Assembly elections in Delhi and Bihar, the party is under pressure to prove that it is still a major force in national politics. With the 2029 Lok Sabha elections slowly coming into focus, these four state elections could shape the future of the Congress.
This is one of the biggest Daily news highlights in Indian politics right now.
Why 2026 Is So Important for Congress
The Congress needs at least one strong victory to rebuild confidence among its workers and supporters. Political experts say that winning even one or two states could change the mood within the party.
Here’s why these elections matter so much:
- The party wants to regain its image as a national alternative.
- It must stop internal conflicts from hurting its chances.
- Strong results will boost morale ahead of the 2029 general election.
- A loss in all four states could weaken its national standing further.
Let’s look at each state more closely.
The Good Signs: Kerala and Tamil Nadu
1. Kerala: Hope with Caution
In Kerala, Congress leaders are feeling positive. In the December 2025 local body elections, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) won over 38% of the vote share across corporations, municipalities, and panchayats. This strong performance has given party workers fresh energy.
However, there are some internal issues. Two senior leaders — Shashi Tharoor and Ramesh Chennithala — are seen as possible chief minister faces if the party wins. To avoid conflict, the party has decided not to project a single leader. Instead, it is promoting “collective leadership.”
There were also rumors earlier that Shashi Tharoor might leave the party after some of his comments were seen as soft towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). But recently, Tharoor openly supported Rahul Gandhi during a heated Parliament debate. This has reduced tensions inside the party.
For now, Kerala looks like one of Congress’ best chances.
2. Tamil Nadu: Alliance Politics at Play
In Tamil Nadu, Congress is allied with the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The alliance hopes to win a second term together.
But there is some tension over seat-sharing talks. Congress leaders reportedly want a guaranteed role in the government if the alliance wins. The DMK is not fully comfortable with these demands.
There are also whispers about possible political changes involving actor Vijay and his new party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. However, nothing has been confirmed.
Despite these issues, the BJP has historically struggled in Tamil Nadu. In 2021, Congress won 18 seats while the BJP managed only four. This gives Congress some confidence.
The Tough Battles: Assam and West Bengal
3. Assam: Defending Ground
In Assam, Congress faces a serious challenge. It currently holds 29 seats and must defend them. The ruling BJP, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, remains strong.
There has also been controversy around former state Congress chief Bhupen Borah, who reportedly considered leaving the party. Though talks with Rahul Gandhi stopped his immediate exit, the situation shows that internal problems remain.
For Congress, the goal in Assam may not be immediate victory but building strength for the future.
4. West Bengal: A Risky Solo Fight
In West Bengal, Congress has decided to fight alone against both the ruling All India Trinamool Congress and the BJP.
In the 2021 Assembly elections, Congress failed to win a single seat out of the 91 it contested. Its vote share also dropped sharply. This makes 2026 a difficult challenge.
Earlier, state leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury opposed alliances with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Now, under new leadership, the party has still chosen not to form alliances.
It is a bold move, but since Congress has little to lose in Bengal, it may see this as a chance to rebuild slowly.
Lessons from the Past
Recent elections show that internal fights can damage Congress badly.
- In Haryana (2024), differences between Kumari Selja and Bhupendra Singh Hooda hurt the party.
- In Chhattisgarh, rivalry between Bhupesh Baghel and TS Singh Deo helped the BJP win.
- In Rajasthan, the long dispute between Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot weakened the party’s chances.
These examples are often discussed in Breaking News debates and political discussions.
If Congress wants success in 2026, it must stay united.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Assembly elections in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and West Bengal are more than just state contests. They are a test of Congress’ survival and revival.
- Kerala and Tamil Nadu offer hope.
- Assam and West Bengal present serious challenges.
- Internal unity will be the key factor.
- Alliances must be handled carefully.
As political observers continue to track every development, these elections remain among the top Daily news highlights in India. The coming months will decide whether Congress can start 2026 with a fresh victory or face another setback.
