New Delhi (ABC Live): Dynastic politics has played a significant role in the decline of the Indian National Congress (INC), one of India's oldest and most prominent political parties. Here's how dynastic politics has contributed to the fall of the Congress:

New Delhi (ABC Live): Dynastic politics has played a significant role in the decline of the Indian National Congress (INC), one of India's oldest and most prominent political parties. Here's how dynastic politics has contributed to the fall of the Congress:

Leadership Challenges: The Congress party has been heavily influenced by the Nehru-Gandhi family for several decades. While the Nehru-Gandhi family has produced iconic leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, the party's over-reliance on this dynasty has led to leadership challenges. Successive generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family have faced criticism for their leadership capabilities, which has weakened the party's overall appeal and effectiveness.

Lack of Internal Democracy: Dynastic politics within the Congress party has often resulted in a lack of internal democracy. Party positions and nominations have been perceived as being determined more by family connections rather than merit or popular support. This lack of internal democracy has led to disenchantment among party members and weakened the party's organizational structure.

Loss of Grassroots Connect: Dynastic politics can lead to a disconnect between party leadership and grassroots workers. When leadership positions are perceived as being reserved for family members, it can demotivate party workers and limit the emergence of local leaders who have deep roots in their communities. This loss of grassroots connect has weakened the party's electoral machinery and ground-level support.

Inability to Adapt: The dominance of dynastic politics within the Congress party has often hindered its ability to adapt to changing political realities. The party has struggled to rejuvenate itself with fresh ideas, leadership, and strategies to address evolving socio-economic issues and demographic shifts. This lack of adaptability has resulted in electoral setbacks and a loss of relevance among voters.

Perception of Entitlement: Dynastic politics can create a perception of entitlement among family members and their loyalists within the Congress party. This sense of entitlement can alienate voters who are looking for leaders who are accountable, responsive, and connected to their needs and aspirations. The perception of entitlement has contributed to the erosion of the Congress party's support base over time.

Overall, dynastic politics has been a significant factor in the decline of the Congress party. It has led to leadership challenges, a lack of internal democracy, a loss of grassroots connect, an inability to adapt to changing political dynamics, and a perception of entitlement among party leaders. To regain its footing, the Congress party may need to address these issues and adopt a more inclusive and merit-based approach to leadership selection and party organization.