In a sign of easing tensions within the faction-ridden Punjab Congress unit, senior leaders opposed to Amarinder Raja Warring continuing as Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) chief have agreed to initiate a dialogue with AICC general secretary in-charge Bhupesh Baghel. The decision, reached after days of deadlock, was announced on Thursday following a meeting of at least seven dissident leaders.
Meeting Conditions and Timeline
The meeting with Baghel is expected to take place on Friday or Saturday, but on the condition that Warring is not part of it, a leader said on condition of anonymity. The venue and timing will be decided by the Channi group after consultations with all stakeholders.
Speaking to The Tribune, senior leader Sukhjinder Randhawa said all leaders were disciplined soldiers of the party and would take up their issues with the Punjab affairs in-charge on the party platform.
Leaders Present and Grievances
At least seven senior leaders participated in the meeting: former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, Sukhjinder Randhawa, Rana Gurjeet Singh, Parminder Pinki, Pargat Singh, Bharat Bhushan Ashu, and Barindermeet Singh Pahra. Sources said most expressed resentment over Baghel's hostile posturing in recent days. A senior leader remarked that Baghel, as an independent observer, should not become a party to the power struggle between the two groups.
Dinner Diplomacy Rejected
The leaders pointed out that Baghel's recent dinner diplomacy, intended to project a show of strength for Warring, failed to gain traction as several senior leaders stayed away from the meeting with him. The decision to open communication with Baghel came after a senior Congress leader advised the disgruntled leaders to maintain party discipline while pursuing their agenda and to meet the Punjab affairs in-charge, who represents the AICC.
In a video shared by ANI on July 9, 2026, Baghel responded to Rana Gurjeet Singh's invitation, saying, “He is welcome. I will certainly go (to meet him). I am going to visit those who are extending the invitation.”
Background of the Rift
The factional feud in Punjab Congress has been simmering for weeks, with dissidents demanding Warring's removal as PPCC chief. The deadlock had stalled party coordination ahead of upcoming elections. The thaw indicates a possible resolution, though the condition excluding Warring from the meeting suggests deep-seated differences remain.
