All India Congress Committee (AICC) observer Ravindra Das said on Wednesday that the Congress Party's strength at the grassroots level remains solid despite consecutive defeats in the general elections of 2014, 2019, and 2024. He spoke to The Hindu in Vizianagaram after visiting Assembly constituencies in the district for a week. Das noted, "Thousands of Congress leaders and activists are keen to return to the party fold." He added, "The party is alive at ground level. It is a good sign for the Congress which would regain its glory very soon." Regarding the selection of the District Congress Committee President, Das said he has received eight applications. The AICC high command will finalize the candidate based on their track records and party contributions over the last 11 years.