Rajesh Sethi declines AICC appointment

Finding himself at the centre of controversy over AICC’s appointment as President Dimapur District Congress Committee, Rajesh Kumar Sethi has stepped away citing concerns over its acceptance within the party.
In a letter to AICC general secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal, Sethi thanked the leadership for the trust shown in him through the March 30, 2026 notification.
However, he clarified that the appointment was unexpected, as he had neither applied for nor sought the role. Instead, he had earlier expressed his aspiration to serve at the national level in the AICC as secretary or joint secretary, aiming to represent both the Jain community and the Northeast, particularly Nagaland.
Response to DDCC: Sethi noted that his appointment might not be welcomed by several local members, stressing that organisational harmony and collective acceptance are vital for strengthening the Congress in Nagaland.
He therefore urged the leadership to review and reconsider the decision in a way that fosters unity and effectiveness.
He also highlighted the long-standing absence of non-Naga representation in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, pointing out that it has been nearly 45 years since such voices were included.
He reiterated the demand for a non-Naga candidate from the lone general seat, 1-Dimapur-I, as a valid and pressing issue.
Despite declining the district role, Sethi affirmed his commitment to continue serving the party in any capacity assigned, prioritising the larger interest of the organisation and its collective growth.