What happened: Congress launches booth-level mobilisation in Punjab; Channi absent
Congress began a booth-level mass mobilisation programme in Punjab ahead of Assembly elections expected in early 2027. The mobilisation drew attention because former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi was absent from the event.
Congress’s Punjab in-charge Bhupesh Baghel chaired the programme at Fatehgarh Sahib during a nine-day visit to Punjab. Bhupesh Baghel told party workers that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was “on its way out” and that Congress remained the only option for voters.
Bhupesh Baghel predicted a five-cornered contest in Punjab. Bhupesh Baghel framed Congress’s electoral challenge as coming from two governments: the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab.
Bhupesh Baghel criticised both governments for alleged lack of faith in the Constitution. The criticism cited public-safety and governance concerns such as drug trafficking and gangster violence.
Punjab party chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said the Congress party is strong and united, while acknowledging “natural differences of opinion.” The event’s leadership composition—Bhupesh Baghel chaired the programme and Charanjit Singh Channi did not attend—has been used to raise renewed questions about Congress unity in Punjab.