As seat-sharing negotiations grip the Punjab Congress, a deepening internal rift is taking center stage, prominently featuring former state unit president Navjot Singh Sidhu. Sidhu is facing scrutiny for organizing independent events, fueling calls for disciplinary measures.
During a recent visit to Punjab by Devender Yadav, the All India Congress Committee’s (AICC) Punjab in-charge, the division within the state unit became evident, with Sidhu on one side and the majority of senior state leadership on the other. Yadav asserted that actions would be taken against those breaking discipline. However, Sidhu, charting his own course, emphasized the need for a consistent interpretation of “discipline.”
Despite a scheduled meeting with Yadav, Sidhu proceeded to hold a rally in Hoshiarpur and later had a closed-door meeting with Yadav in Chandigarh. Sidhu, pledging allegiance to Rahul Gandhi and Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge, defended his independent rallies, citing a commitment to strengthening the party and promoting Congress ideology.
Sidhu argued that engaging with the public was crucial for the party’s revival, asserting that reinvention and change were imperative. He maintained that the Congress, relying on its foundation of workers, needed to connect with the people to address Punjab’s issues.
Addressing questions about his continued rallies, Sidhu explained that they were planned before Yadav’s visit, expressing willingness to align with party decisions. Before meeting Yadav, Sidhu posted a cryptic video message, criticizing “spineless” leaders.
State Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring emphasized party unity and discipline, while Yadav acknowledged differing views within the state party regarding an alliance with AAP for the Lok Sabha polls.
Yadav assured that these opinions would be conveyed to the Congress high command, reaffirming the party’s commitment to winning all 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab. The alliance question remains a point of contention, with varied sentiments among state leaders.