The latest data from the prestigious and trusted 'Mood of the Nation' (MOTN) survey has been released. Conducted by India Today and CVoter, the survey gauges national sentiment, particularly regarding the leadership of the INDIA Bloc. This survey spanned from December 8, 2025, to January 21, 2026, with a sample size exceeding 36,000 participants, providing key insights into India's current political landscape.
The India Today-CVoter's 'Mood of the Nation' survey posed a critical question: Who is best suited to lead the INDIA Bloc—Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal, or Akhilesh Yadav? As of January 2026, 29% of those surveyed favored Rahul Gandhi as their first choice. Mamata Banerjee follows with 7%, with Arvind Kejriwal and Akhilesh Yadav both garnering 6% support each.
Historically, the 'Mood of the Nation' survey shows minimal shifts in leadership preferences for the INDIA Bloc over the past three to four years.
Based on the survey data, back in August 2025, when the same question was posed, Rahul Gandhi was also the preferred choice, with 28% endorsing him for leadership. Mamata Banerjee was second, followed by Arvind Kejriwal and Akhilesh Yadav.
Source: aajtak
Focusing on the data from August 2023, significant changes are evident. At that time, Rahul Gandhi was seen as suitable by 24%, Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal by 15% each, and Akhilesh Yadav by 5%.
The findings vividly highlight that, in comparison to Rahul, other leaders like Mamata, Kejriwal, and Akhilesh are not currently seen as fitting to lead the alliance.
How has Rahul Gandhi performed as Opposition Leader?
During the 'Mood of the Nation' survey in January 2026, people were asked about Rahul Gandhi's performance as the Opposition Leader. Compared to the previous year, his ratings saw a slight dip.
August 2025
Outstanding – 28%
Good – 22%
Average – 16%
Poor – 15%
Very Poor – 12%
January 2026
Outstanding – 24%
Good – 20%
Average – 18%
Poor – 17%
Very Poor – 14%
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Who is best suited for Congress leadership?
Recently, the Congress party's leadership has sparked considerable discussion in political circles. Alongside Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi has emerged as a potential leader. Comparing numbers from August 2023 and January 2026, Priyanka is now viewed as slightly more suitable for leadership.
January 2023
Rahul Gandhi – 26%
Priyanka Gandhi – 8%
August 2023
Rahul Gandhi – 32%
Priyanka Gandhi – 9%
Source: aajtak
August 2024
Rahul Gandhi – 49%
Priyanka Gandhi – 6%
August 2025
Rahul Gandhi – 38%
Priyanka Gandhi – 7%
January 2026
Rahul Gandhi – 36%
Priyanka Gandhi – 9%
Is Congress the Weakest Link in the INDIA Bloc?
When asked whether Congress is the weakest link in the INDIA Bloc, 40% of respondents in the survey affirmed it. Meanwhile, 22% said somewhat, 12% disagreed, and 17% said absolutely not.
Source: aajtak
