Closing ranks is unusual to the Congress that has been trying to consolidate itself in the run-up to the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in some important states. Historically, factions within the party have dented its prospects more than any other rival political outfit. So, getting together for a cause, say pushing the BJP back at least in their respective state elections, is seen with a perennial doubt if the unity would stand power politics.

Maharashtra is one such state where the Congress has started a process to have 'feudal lords' on the same page. But it took a change at the top – opposition leader in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge replaced a long-time ineffective general secretary in-charge of Maharashtra Mohan Prakash – to get the party its act together. Kharge was in Mumbai on Sunday to give a patient hearing to the party leaders from Mumbai and rest of Maharashtra who had a complaint or two, and some important issues that they want the high command to decide for once and all. Mumbai unit's leadership is one of the burning topics that Kharge needs to sort out in consultation with president Rahul Gandhi. Reduced to dust in the 2014 elections, the Congress is now gradually assuming a significant role in the opposition camp.