Stories

Hours after Neha Bora was seen alongside the Gandhis at a joint press conference, Rahul Gandhi encouraged her to address the media. (X)
N
News18•17-10-2026, 07:57
Why a WhatsApp group named Chotu sent a strong warning to the Congress leadership
  • •An NSUI WhatsApp group was temporarily renamed Chotu to protest against the perceived sidelining of grassroots workers in favor of newcomers like Neha Bora.
  • •Workers expressed frustration over unequal treatment after senior leaders failed to promptly visit injured NSUI members compared to other protesters.
  • •The appointment of outsiders like Kanhaiya Kumar and the recent Delhi University elections defeat have deepened debates over valuing the organizational base.
  • •Rahul Gandhi attempted to pacify the cadres by praising their loyalty and referring to them as Babbar Sher during a meeting at Indira Bhavan.
  • •The incident highlights the ongoing dilemma within the Congress party on balancing the promotion of fresh talent without alienating loyal cadres.

Key Questions Answered

The group changed its name after grassroots workers felt sidelined and showed resentment when newcomer Neha Bora was pushed into the spotlight alongside senior leaders at a joint press conference, while injured party workers experienced unequal treatment.

Team Rahul sensed the disquiet and arranged a tea party at Indira Bhavan, where Rahul Gandhi praised the workers as his Babbar Sher for their loyalty during protests, leading the group to change its name back to the original.

Kanhaiya Kumar's appointment as the NSUI in-charge has amplified ongoing debates concerning outsiders versus established cadres, adding to existing grievances about newcomers receiving opportunities that loyal party members have waited years for.