Former IAS officer Kannan Gopinathan has formally joined the Indian National Congress (INC), marking a significant shift from his bureaucratic career to active political engagement. The induction ceremony was held at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters in New Delhi, where he was welcomed by senior leaders, including Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal. His entry into the party has generated considerable attention, as Gopinathan is widely recognized for his principled stand on governance and democratic values.

Gopinathan, a 2012 batch IAS officer, had resigned from his administrative post in 2019, protesting the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. His resignation was seen as a courageous move, demonstrating his commitment to constitutional principles and his willingness to voice dissent against policies he considered unjust. Since then, he has remained actively involved in civic activism, participating in various movements, including protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, and advocating for civil liberties and transparency in governance.

In his remarks during the joining ceremony, Gopinathan explained that his decision was shaped by extensive interactions with citizens across India. He expressed confidence that the Congress party is best equipped to promote inclusive governance, uphold democratic values, and protect the rights of all citizens. He also stressed the importance of countering divisive policies and fostering social cohesion.

Congress leaders have praised Gopinathan’s decision, highlighting his integrity, dedication, and commitment to public service. They view his inclusion as an asset that brings administrative expertise and a fresh perspective to the party. Venugopal described him as a “fearless advocate for democracy” whose values resonate with the party’s vision of an equitable and inclusive India.

Gopinathan’s transition from civil service to active politics is expected to influence the political landscape positively, strengthening the Congress party’s emphasis on principled leadership, democratic engagement, and ethical governance as it prepares for future electoral challenges.