Key Facts
The ongoing leadership tussle in the Punjab Congress intensified on Saturday as AICC in-charge Bhupesh Baghel held an 80-minute meeting with over 80 party leaders at the residence of Kapurthala MLA Rana Gurjit Singh. The meeting, aimed at resolving differences between PPCC chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, failed to yield a consensus, with Channi’s camp openly demanding Warring’s removal.
Details of the Meeting
The gathering included prominent leaders such as Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, Gurdaspur MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, former Deputy CM OP Soni, MLAs Pargat Singh, Barindermeet Singh Pahra, Aruna Chaudhary, former MLAs Gurkirat Singh Kotli and Sangat Singh Gilzian, ex-MP Mohd Sadiq, and Balkaur Singh Sidhu, father of the slain Punjabi singer. Former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu reportedly declined to speak.
According to sources, Channi asked attendees to raise their hands if they wanted Warring removed, claiming compliance. Channi alleged that Warring was spreading rumors about him being in touch with the BJP, stating, “I have cases against me by the BJP-led Centre as well as the AAP-led Punjab government, and I am not afraid of them.” He asserted he never sought any post but only demanded Warring’s replacement.
Gurdaspur MLA Barindermeet Singh Pahra declared he would not contest the next Assembly polls if Warring remains PPCC chief. Balkaur Singh Sidhu accused Warring of promoting rivals in his Mansa belt, expressing concern over Congress’s prospects there.
Baghel’s Response
Speaking to reporters, Baghel downplayed the demand, saying, “Rana Gurjit invited us… No one has any objection to the party high command’s decision. Everyone stands with the high command.” He claimed no one was upset and that he would convey concerns to the high command. When asked about the demand to replace Warring, Baghel denied any such talk.
However, after Baghel left, Randhawa and Channi addressed the media. Randhawa called for a leadership change, stating, “We had a productive dialogue… We need leaders who speak boldly and decisively. We do not need compromised leaders.” Baghel later clarified that the gathering was not a formal meeting but a family-like discussion.
Impact and What Readers Should Know
The crisis has been brewing since July 1 when the AICC appointed Channi as chairperson of the party’s poll campaign committee while retaining Warring as PPCC chief. Channi, who hoped to replace Warring, held a meeting of supporters on July 3. Baghel on July 8 ruled out a change in leadership, calling it not a “child’s play.”
The impasse poses a challenge for Congress ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections, with internal divisions threatening party unity. Baghel’s visit, intended to broker peace, has so far failed to bridge the gap between the Warring and Channi factions.
FAQ
What is the current leadership crisis in Punjab Congress?
The crisis involves a tussle between PPCC chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and former CM Charanjit Singh Channi, with Channi and his supporters demanding Warring's removal ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.
What did Bhupesh Baghel say after the meeting?
Baghel downplayed the demand for Warring's removal, stating that no such demand was made and that all leaders stand with the party high command. He assured to convey concerns to the leadership.
What did Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa demand?
Randhawa called for a leadership change in the state party unit, emphasizing the need for leaders who are not 'compromised' and can address issues like law and order and corruption.
How did Amrinder Singh Raja Warring respond to the crisis?
Warring dismissed allegations of being a 'compromised' leader, stating that no names were taken and that the issue is temporary.