Chandigarh, August 3
Congress’s bid to mend internal rifts in Punjab hit another hurdle on Monday when posters declaring “Baghel Wapas Jao” (“Baghel Go Back”) appeared across Sri Muktsar Sahib ahead of a key organisational meeting led by AICC Punjab in‑charge Bhupesh Baghel.
It is widely acknowledged that factionalism has long plagued Congress state units across the country, often undermining their electoral prospects. In Punjab, despite nearly six months of sustained efforts by the AICC to reconcile differences between PPCC chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and former Chief Minister—now Jalandhar MP and CWC member—Charanjit Singh Channi, the internal discord has only deepened with time. Reports in sections of the media now suggest that the Punjab Congress could even face a split as the Assembly elections draw closer, highlighting the gravity of the crisis and the leadership’s struggle to contain it.
The meeting, which brought together senior Congress leaders in Punjab, unfolded against the backdrop of a sharpening confrontation between state party president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi. Their factions have clashed repeatedly in public forums, laying bare the widening cracks within the organisation.
This fresh protest comes on the heels of chaotic scenes at Baghel’s earlier programmes in Sangrur and Barnala, where Channi’s supporters interrupted proceedings with loud “Channi Zindabad” slogans while Warring was addressing workers. The repeated disruptions compelled Baghel to issue a stern caution that indiscipline would invite punitive measures, including expulsion from the party.
Yet, in what can only be described as a major embarrassment for the AICC, this appears to be the first instance of any central leader facing such open hostility from the Punjab Congress unit. Posters reading “Baghel Wapas Jao” (Baghel Go Back) have now surfaced not only in Muktsar but also in Kotkapura and several other locations, amplifying the message of dissent and underscoring the depth of resentment simmering within the ranks.
Meanwhile, the Muktsar posters have reignited talk of simmering discontent within the Punjab Congress, despite repeated appeals from the central leadership for unity ahead of the 2027 Assembly polls. In a notable move, the media was barred from Monday’s venue, signalling the leadership’s intent to keep internal deliberations behind closed doors.
Baghel and Warring are slated to jointly brief the press on Tuesday after the round of organisational meetings concludes. Meanwhile, leaders aligned with Channi and other senior figures continue pressing for a change in state leadership. Baghel, however, has repeatedly insisted there is no plan to replace Warring and has urged all factions to close ranks and focus on strengthening the party before the elections.