Chandigarh: Punjab Congress on Monday held a key strategy meeting in Chandigarh to kickstart preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections. The meeting was attended by district presidents, candidates from the 2022 Assembly polls, MLAs and MPs. Three back-to-back meetings were held during the day.
The sessions were chaired by party’s Punjab in-charge Bhupesh Baghel and state president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Baghel said distribution of tickets and selection of the leader of the legislative party remain the prerogative of the party high command. “There is no grievance, no complaint and no individual claim. The party will decide collectively,” he said.
Baghel added that in line with the Jodhpur declaration, the party aims to ensure proper representation to OBC, SC, ST, minorities and women. He said more than 50% of candidates will be below the age of 50. Similar principles are being adopted in strengthening the organisation, he added.
Rally with farmers and workers planned
Baghel said the Punjab Congress has been actively raising issues related to MGNREGA and farmers’ concerns. Referring to the recent trade agreement between India and the United States, he said Rahul Gandhi has consistently fought for farmers’ rights and the party will intensify its campaign in Punjab.
“We will organise a major rally with farmers and workers in the state. Rahul Gandhi and other senior central leaders will be present,” he said. The rally is likely to be held on February 28 or March 1, with the venue to be announced soon.
On speculation about appointing two deputy chief ministers in Punjab, Baghel said the post is not a constitutional requirement and any such decision would be taken by the party high command.
Earlier, during a January meeting in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi had instructed Punjab leaders to maintain unity and warned that strict action would be taken against indiscipline. The party has decided to contest the 2027 elections under collective leadership.
A separate meeting of district presidents was also held earlier this month in Jalandhar to review steps aimed at strengthening the organisation at the grassroots level.
