During a public rally in Hyderabad, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the KCR party, alleging their association with the BJP. Kharge stated, “While we have Modi on one side, KCR on the other, it appears they have close ties. KCR’s party is essentially acting as the ‘B team’ of the BJP, with BJP supporting them.” The two-day Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting held in Hyderabad concluded on September 17, with party leaders expressing confidence in securing a “clear mandate” in the upcoming assembly elections in five states. The party also deliberated on its organizational readiness for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, which are anticipated to take place in April-May 2024.