Indian National Congress

Indian National Congress (also known as the Congress Party, abbreviated INC) is a major political party in India. Created in 1885, the Indian National Congress became the nation's leader in the Independence Movement, with over 15 million Indians involved in its organizations and over 70 million participants in its battles with the British government. After Independence in 1947, it became the nation's premier political party. In the 14th Lok Sabha (2004-2009), 145 INC members, the largest contingent amongst all parties, serve in the house. The party is currently the chief member of the ruling United Progressive Alliance coalition government supported by the Left Front.

Formation of present Government of India

In the 2004 general elections, the Congress alliance won the largest number of seats and got an assurance of support from the Left Front upsetting the Atal Behari Vajpayee-led National Democratic Alliance which according to all forecasts was going to coast to victory. Shortly thereafter, Sonia Gandhi was nominated by the Congress-led 19-party alliance to be the next Prime Minister. But in what was described as dropping of a political bombshell, Sonia Gandhi refused to take the position based on her "inner voice". Eminent economist, former Union Finance Minister and senior Congress leader Dr. Manmohan Singh was backed by her for the post of Prime Minister. He was sworn-in as Prime Minister on May 22, 2004.

Related Topics:
2004 general elections - Congress alliance - Atal Behari Vajpayee - National Democratic Alliance - Economist - Manmohan Singh - May 22 - 2004

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~