Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s resounding victory in Wayanad has reaffirmed the Gandhi family’s dominance, effectively sealing the Congress party’s leadership among the siblings for the foreseeable future. This win goes beyond electoral numbers; it symbolises the resilience and centrality of the family in Congress’s affairs, a constant in the otherwise turbulent landscape of Indian politics. For decades, the Congress party has relied on the Gandhis as both a unifying force and a symbol of continuity.

Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra showcased his determination to quell dissent and reinvigorate the party’s rank and file. With his sister’s victory, the family now stands on firmer ground, with each member playing a defined role. Ms Sonia Gandhi, while no longer active in daily affairs, remains a political compass, occasionally stepping in to mediate disputes. Mr Gandhi has embraced his role as leader of the opposition, maintaining a strategic distance from routine organisational matters. Ms Vadra, with her landslide win, has cemented her position as a charismatic force capable of energising both party workers and the broader opposition. Notwithstanding bashing of political dynasties, particularly the Gandhis, this consolidation of leadership within the Congress is particularly striking in contrast to other parties, many of which are grappling with succession crises or ageing leadership. The BJP, despite its current dominance, faces the challenge of preparing for a post-Modi era. Regional parties like the Trinamool Congress, the Communist Party of India (Marxist), and the Bahujan Samaj Party are similarly constrained by leadership uncertainties. In this context, the Gandhis’ continued prominence offers Congress a rare stability and positions it as a credible leader of an opposition coalition. However, this triumph also brings its challenges.

The Gandhis’ focus on national-level politics and high-profile campaigns has historically side-lined the critical task of organisational rebuilding. Despite her charisma and popular appeal, Ms Vadra, like her brother, has shown little interest in addressing the party’s structural weaknesses. Revitalising grassroots cadres, streamlining de cision-making processes, and fostering regional leadership require sustained effort ~ qualities the Gandhis have yet to demonstrate in organisational contexts. Moreover, Ms Vadra’s rise could exacerbate factionalism within the Congress. While her victory legitimises her leadership, it also amplifies comparisons between the siblings. These comparisons may unintentionally undermine Mr Gandhi’s authority, especially if Ms Vadr ‘s assertiveness overshadows his more understated style. For party president Mallikarjun Kharge, balancing the Gan dhis’ influence while maintaining his own authority will be a challenge.

Ultimately, Ms Vadra’s victory has secured the Congress a unified leadership structure for the foreseeable future, offering coherence in a fragmented op position landscape. Yet, the party’s revival depends not only on leveraging the family’s charisma but also on addressing deep-seated organisational issues. Without this, even the renewed energy of Wayanad could prove fleeting. The Congress must now choose between being a party centred on personalities or one rooted in robust structures ~ a choice that will shape its future in Indian politics.