For the first time, 40-year-old Siddhanshu Mishra has been appointed as the Congress city president of Bilaspur, while Mahendra Gangotri has been given charge as district president for the rural areas. This clearly indicates the growing influence of AICC Secretary Devendra Yadav in Bilaspur, as both positions have been assigned to his team members.
Senior Leaders’ Preferences Overlooked
The appointments have bypassed the choices of senior leaders, including former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, MP Dr. Charandas Mahant, former Deputy CM T.S. Singh Deo, and Kota MLA Atal Srivastava. Instead, priority was given to the team of Pradesh President Deepak Baij and the local MP along with AICC Secretary Devendra Yadav.
Appointment Process and Lobbying
AICC appointed observers to oversee the district president selection process. In the city, names like former MLA Shailesh Pandey, Mahesh Dubey, Shiva Mishra, and Siddhanshu Mishra were considered, while in the rural region, leaders from the general category such as Ashish Singh Thakur, Rajendra Shukla, and several OBC/SC leaders were contenders. Ultimately, Siddhanshu Mishra was selected for city president and Mahendra Gangotri for rural district president.
Focus on Young Leaders Under 50
Both appointees are under 50 years of age. Siddhanshu Mishra has held various positions in the Youth Congress and NSUI, actively participating in political activities. Mahendra Gangotri also brings experience from Youth Congress and NSUI.
Siddhanshu Mishra’s Political Activism Beneficial
Mishra’s active role in events such as Ravana Dahan celebrations and involvement in an eight-year-old land dispute worked in his favor, helping him secure the city president role.
These appointments mark a significant step in strengthening new leadership and empowering youth within the Bilaspur Congress unit.
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