Bihar Blow, Kerala Boost: Can Congress Turn Fortunes in 2026?

• Congress experienced a significant defeat in Bihar but found relief with strong results in Kerala's local body elections.
• The Congress-led UDF secured victories in four corporations, 54 municipalities, seven district panchayats, 79 block panchayats, and 505 gram panchayats in Kerala.
• Kerala's local elections are viewed as a semi-final for the state assembly elections scheduled for March-April next year.
• Upcoming assembly elections in Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Assam are crucial, with Congress having little to lose as it's not currently in power in these states.
• Congress aims for gains in Assam, where it has a strong base, and seeks to maintain its position in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry through alliances.

Why It Matters: Kerala win gives Congress hope for 2026 elections after recent setbacks.