Experts chart the way forward for Rahul Gandhi after the Congress party's humiliating defeat in Uttar Pradesh.

Rahul Gandhi's total failure in Uttar Pradesh should compel real introspection within the Gandhi family and in the Congress party. So far, there is not the slightest sign of any such churning.

The statements made by party president Sonia Gandhi, Rahul and party general secretary Digivjay Singh are not only unwise, but lack purpose and sincerity.

An editorial in a national daily newspaper described Sonia's remarks on Wednesday as 'bland nothings.'

Congress cadres and voters have a lot to worry about. Rediff.com's Sheela Bhatt spoke to political pundits to find out what Rahul Gandhi should really do to move forward from the Congress party and his ignominious debacle in the assembly election.

Here are their suggestions:

Switch off the television news channels at home, Rahul

The spin woven by the Congress's media managers about the election results is trapping you and your party leaders.

Banish Digvijay Singh to the political wilderness.

Strong symbolic punishment needs to be an example for Congress leaders.

Speak the Rashtra Bhasha 24/7.

Either you can oppose Posco's investment in the poorest areas on this planet OR you can support Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's dream nuclear projects and foreign direct investment in retail.

You can't do both. You can't have confused ideas of development for India.

Read up on the Congress party's 127-year history.

It will tell you that the best bet for the Congress party has, always, been to remain centrist in its political, social and cultural ideas.

Please Read: India After Gandhi: The History of the World's Largest Democracy by Ramchandra Guha.

Tearing up the Samajwadi Party's election manifesto during your poll speeches... bringing sister Priyanka Gandhi's children on stage... Priyanka tweaking your mummy's cheeks...

All this does not add to your charisma.

Indians today find charisma in those leaders who help people earn more money with least fuss.

It is time the Congress party stops talking about Muslims alone.

Not because the Muslims don't need political support, but because the Congress's credibility is suspect on this count.

There is urgent need to think of superlative economic plans for the 'Mahamandal' -- the grand alliance of Muslims, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes.

It would be better if the upper caste poor are included in such a scheme.

Is there a way you can tone down the Special Protection Group's intimidating presence when local party leaders come to see you?

Have less fear.

It is well known that insecurity is entrenched in your family's mindset. No Congressmen would dare state this fact.

Shed apprehensions of anyone becoming more powerful than the Family.

Inculcate a culture of fostering regional leaders.

In every village, town, cities and metropolis, pick up local leaders, support them and let them flourish.