Baghel Rules Out Leadership Change in Punjab Congress, Signals Stability in Party Ranks
Baghel backs state leaders, unveils grassroots strategy and training roadmap to strengthen party base
Chandigarh: With the Assembly elections drawing closer, the Congress party has firmly ruled out any leadership change in Punjab, reinforcing a message of unity and continuity. The All India Congress Committee (AICC) in charge for the state, Bhupesh Baghel, expressed confidence in the current leadership, stating that the party is satisfied with the performance of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa.
Baghel’s remarks followed a two-day in New Delhi, where key Punjab Congress leaders deliberated on the party’s organisational direction and election preparedness. The discussions, described as “highly constructive,” focused on strengthening the party’s structure at the grassroots level and building momentum ahead of the polls.
Highlighting the roadmap, Baghel revealed that a detailed monthly activity calendar has been prepared to guide party workers across the state. The plan includes extensive outreach programmes aimed at reconnecting with voters and reinforcing the party’s presence in both urban and rural areas.
As part of this organisational push, the Congress will conduct training sessions for district presidents from April 21 to April 30. These sessions are expected to see participation from senior leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. The initiative is designed to equip local leadership with strategies and tools necessary for effective campaigning. Baghel added that field-level mobilisation efforts will begin in May, marking the transition from planning to execution.
On the crucial issue of ticket distribution, Baghel emphasised that candidate selection will be driven by “winnability.” He noted that the party is conducting comprehensive surveys and gathering inputs from grassroots workers, while also evaluating public sentiment and local dynamics. Both seasoned leaders and new aspirants will be assessed through this multi-layered process, with final recommendations to be submitted to the party’s high command.
Addressing rumours of internal discord, Baghel categorically denied any infighting within the state unit. He maintained that the leadership is united and focused on presenting a strong alternative to rival parties in the upcoming elections.
Taking aim at political opponents, Baghel criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for lacking a strong leadership base in Punjab. He also pointed to alleged internal challenges within the Aam Aadmi Party, claiming that several leaders from Delhi are at odds with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Referring to recent Enforcement Directorate actions against AAP leaders, Baghel alleged that such moves are politically motivated.
With a clear strategy, unified leadership, and a focus on grassroots mobilisation, the Congress appears determined to consolidate its position in Punjab as the state heads toward a crucial electoral battle.
