Channi-Led Faction Presses for Warring's Ouster
Over 92 disgruntled Punjab Congress leaders, led by former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, met AICC general secretary Bhupesh Baghel on July 11, 2026, but the meeting ended without an immediate resolution to the ongoing crisis. The leaders expressed their discontent over the retention of Amarinder Singh Raja Warring as Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president.
Baghel Hears Grievances, Promises to Convey to High Command
Baghel listened to the concerns of the leaders, who provided specific instances of how Warring had allegedly created divisions within the party across the state. However, Baghel stated that changing the decision was not within his purview but assured them that he would communicate their sentiments to the party high command. After the meeting, Baghel claimed that no one had any objection to the high command's decision and that everyone was united.
Randhawa Demands Bold Leadership
Senior Congress leader Sukhjinder Randhawa said, “We had a productive dialogue, wherein it was acknowledged that sometimes the party must reverse certain decisions. Our demand to the leadership present today is clear. We want a Congress government in Punjab, and we want to address issues like poor law-and-order situation and corruption. To achieve this, we need unity within the party, but we also need leaders who speak boldly and decisively. We do not need compromised leaders.”
Baghel Denies Discussion on Replacing Warring
Despite the strong push from the faction, Baghel claimed that there had been no discussion about replacing Raja Warring as the Punjab Congress president. He said, “Rana (MLA Rana Gurjeet) had called us. He is a senior leader... I spoke to all colleagues and met them. They expressed their views and no one has any objection to the high command's decision. Everyone is with the high command. My colleagues raised some issues and I assured them all that I will take care of everyone's interests. No one should suffer just because they don't have the support of some big leader. If any candidate has the capability to win, they will definitely get the ticket... Colleagues raised some issues, which I will raise with the high command... No one is upset...”
Leaders Send Clear Message Against Warring
However, sources indicated that a clear message had been given to Baghel against Warring, with most leaders at the meeting supporting the demand for his replacement. The crisis continues as the faction awaits a decision from the high command.
