Overview
- The AICC notified four-member screening committees for Assam, Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry with immediate effect.
- Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will chair the Assam panel, joined by Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, Imran Masood and Sirivella Prasad.
- The committees will shortlist candidates in consultation with state units, with key state and AICC office-bearers serving as ex officio members.
- Assam’s Assembly election is expected in March–April, and Congress is preparing as part of a common platform with CPI(M), Raijor Dal, AJP, CPI, CPI(ML) Liberation, JDA and APHLC.
- Rivals from the BJP and JD(U) called the decision a sign of discord, while Congress leaders cast it as leadership engagement.