Jaipur: In a move to resonate with the younger electorate, Rajasthan Congress is gearing up for the upcoming local body polls by shifting its campaign focus beyond traditional election issues. During a two-day brainstorming session at Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) office Monday, Rajasthan in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa called on party workers to deepen their engagement with Gen Z, emphasising critical issues such as jobs, unemployment and the condition of govt schools.Randhawa addressed nearly 245 functionaries from 23 districts, including district presidents, MLAs, MPs and election candidates, as they assessed the party’s performance in recent polls and provided feedback on local challenges. “Young people should not be approached only during elections. We need to understand what Gen Z is thinking and take up issues that matter to them—particularly education, jobs, and unemployment,” Randhawa said, highlighting the need for continuous outreach to the youth demographic.
LoP Tikaram Jully, PCC Chief Govind Singh Dottasra and Sukhjinder Singh Randhava during the two-day brainstorming session at the PCC office in Jaipur, Rajasthan on 17 August 2026
The urgency is underscored by the state govt’s submission to the high court that the election process for urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions will be completed by Nov 15. Considering this, Randhawa urged Congress members to expand initiatives like “Chhatron Ki Goonj,” which fosters direct interaction with students, transforming these engagements into ongoing outreach efforts.Discussions also touched upon the latest controversy surrounding restrictions on entry, photography and videography in govt schools, which Congress members believe presents a valuable opportunity to challenge the ruling BJP govt on issues of transparency and educational standards. “If everything is fine in the schools, why should the govt be worried about photographs and videos? Congress can use this issue to expose the govt’s failures on education,” Randhawa said.Party functionaries also emphasised the need to connect various narratives—such as teacher vacancies, inadequate infrastructure and limited job opportunities—into a cohesive story that aligns with the party’s broader youth-focused campaign. As Congress prepares for the crucial local elections, the emphasis on youth engagement and education issues could play a pivotal role in strengthening the party’s local networks and mobilisation efforts.
