The Congress is in introspective mood, especially after the Karnataka debacle.

The Congress Working Committee which met in New Delhi on Saturday to discuss the poll drubbing has decided to form committees to suggest ways to revive the party.

The panels will have to submit a report within 15 days after it is set up.

Admitting that the party suffered a loss in Karnataka, its spokesman Janardhan Dwivedi said, "There was a discussion on the price rise and it was decided to authorise Congress president to nominate two sub-committees and lead the party by chalking out future course of action,"

Obviously, the meet delved on the fuel price issue. The CWC members and special invitees gave their inputs, saying the situation had become worrisome.

"Though the members were worried, they understood the international price situation," he said.  But he could not explain how would the Congress explain to ordinary citizens about the price rise.

Interestingly, Finance Minister P Chidambaram was not invited to the crucial meet.

"Had he had been invited, he would have definitely come,' said Dwivedi.