Deadlock in Punjab Congress Awaits Rahul Gandhi's Return
The ongoing turmoil within the Punjab Congress is expected to continue until Rahul Gandhi returns from his foreign tour and intervenes to break the deadlock, according to party sources. Both factions loyal to state party chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi are holding out for Gandhi's decision.
“Both Warring and Channi camps are waiting for him to come and sort out the differences. Otherwise what is stopping them from coming to the table?” questioned a Congress leader who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Warring Hints at Resolution Within Days
Speaking at a dinner hosted by former Cabinet Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu in Mohali, PPCC President Amrinder Singh Raja Warring indicated that a breakthrough is imminent. “Within the next three to four days, the people of Punjab will witness a new political atmosphere in the state. If any party leader or worker is upset with me, I will resolve all differences, and the party will remain united to contest the upcoming Assembly elections,” he said on Wednesday evening.
The event was attended by several prominent Congress figures, including former Speaker Rana KP Singh, Fatehgarh Sahib MP Dr Amar Singh, former MLA Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Mahinder Singh Rinwa, former MLA Hans Raj Josan, former Zira MLA Kulbir Singh Zira, Phillaur MLA Vikramjit Singh Chaudhary, and PPCC General Secretary Captain Sandeep Sandhu.
Baghel's Five-Day Ultimatum
A day earlier, AICC general secretary in-charge of Punjab Bhupesh Baghel told media in Chandigarh that he needed “five days’ time” to resolve all differences between Punjab Congress leaders. However, sources suggest that Baghel's position has been complicated by the lingering tension between the top leadership.
“Both the camps are waiting for Rahul Gandhi to come and give a decision. Baghel has come here as a troubleshooter for the time-being,” said a senior Congress leader, also speaking anonymously.
Channi Reaffirms Loyalty to Rahul Gandhi
Channi has repeatedly expressed his allegiance to Rahul Gandhi, stating that his loyalty remains with the Congress party. This stance underscores the factional dynamics, as both sides look to the central leadership for arbitration.
Workers Dismayed but Hopeful
Punjab Congress workers are reportedly dismayed by the infighting but see a silver lining: the tussle may be resolved well before campaigning begins for the upcoming Assembly elections. The party aims to present a united front to counter opposition challenges.
