'Will strive to live up to leadership's expectations': Imran Masood on new role
Senior MP Imran Masood pledges to meet leadership expectations after being named Working President of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee.

In a significant organizational shake-up for the Congress party in Uttar Pradesh, senior Member of Parliament Imran Masood has been appointed as the Working President of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC). Speaking on his new responsibility, Masood expressed his full commitment to fulfilling the mandates set by the party high command.
The appointment comes as part of a major overhaul of the state unit, aimed at strengthening the party's position ahead of upcoming high-stakes elections in the state. Masood, who is a Lok Sabha MP, emphasized that he intends to work diligently to meet the goals envisioned by the central leadership.
Tribute to outgoing chief Ajay Rai
While stepping into his new role, Masood was quick to acknowledge the groundwork laid by the outgoing state unit chief, Ajay Rai. He lauded Rai for his intense struggle and the robust organizational structure he helped build during his tenure.
"I will strive to live up to the expectations they have of me and whatever they deem best... Ajay Rai ji has undoubtedly struggled immensely for the party. He has fought hard for the party and built a very strong organization. There is no two ways about that. But ultimately, it is the party’s decision," Masood stated.New leadership team for Uttar Pradesh Congress
The restructuring, approved by the AICC, introduces a fresh set of office-bearers tasked with revitalizing the Congress voice in the state. The new leadership lineup includes:
- Aradhana Mishra 'Mona': Appointed as the new State President of the UPCC, replacing Ajay Rai. She is the daughter of senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari.
- Imran Masood: Appointed as the Working President.
- Devendra Nishad and Alok Prasad: Appointed as Senior Vice-Presidents.
- Chaudhary Virendra Singh: Appointed as the Leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) in Uttar Pradesh.
Rajendra Pal Gautam welcomes the new team
Congress Uttar Pradesh in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam officially welcomed the new appointees via social media, expressing confidence that the new team would bring renewed energy to the party. Gautam also extended his heartfelt gratitude to Ajay Rai for his significant contributions to the organization.
Gautam noted that under this new leadership, the Congress party aims to amplify its voice regarding social justice, the Constitution, and the rights of the people. He expressed hope that the new responsibilities would lead to a stronger, more resilient organization capable of tackling the political challenges in Uttar Pradesh.