Supporters of Charanjit Singh Channi disrupted Congress party programmes in Punjab with slogan chanting, prompting warnings of possible expulsion from party leadership [1, 2].
The unrest signals a deepening leadership struggle within the Punjab Congress as the party attempts to organize for upcoming state assembly elections. Internal rifts over who will lead the state effort threaten to weaken the party's organizational structure before the vote [1, 2].
Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel responded to the disruptions by warning that indiscipline would not be tolerated. Baghel said that those engaging in such behavior could face expulsion from the party [1, 2]. The slogans were aimed at promoting Channi, contributing to a tense atmosphere during official party events [1, 2].
Baghel emphasized the need for party unity to ensure a strong organizational presence in the region. The leadership tussle has created visible factions within the state unit, a divide that Baghel seeks to close to avoid further electoral setbacks [1, 2].
The protests occur amid ongoing friction regarding the direction of the Punjab wing. While Channi maintains a base of support, the central leadership is prioritizing a unified front to compete in the state assembly elections [1, 2].
“Bhupesh Baghel warned of possible expulsion for indiscipline.”
The friction between the Channi camp and the central leadership suggests that the Congress party is struggling to consolidate power in Punjab. If the party cannot resolve these internal leadership disputes, it risks entering the state assembly elections with a fractured base, potentially benefiting opposing political coalitions.
