Jalandhar Member of Parliament and former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi has reaffirmed his loyalty to the Congress party, stating that he remains deeply thankful for every responsibility and position entrusted to him by the organisation. Amid ongoing political discussions, Channi emphasised that the party has played a crucial role in shaping his public life and leadership journey.
Speaking about his tenure and parliamentary role, Channi said he consistently raised the concerns of farmers, Sikhs, and labourers at national platforms. He pointed out that as Chairman, he strongly advocated for the implementation of the Minimum Support Price (MSP), calling it a lifeline for the farming community. According to him, these issues were raised not for political mileage but to amplify the voices of those who often remain unheard.
Channi also referred to the tense period during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Punjab at the height of the farmers’ agitation. He claimed that he took full responsibility at the time and ensured that no cases were registered against protesting farmers, a decision he said was taken to maintain peace and protect democratic dissent.
Using a metaphor to describe the Congress party, Channi said the organisation is like a bouquet that blooms beautifully only when every flower is given space and respect. His remarks were seen as a broader message on internal representation and unity, especially in the context of a report published by The Indian Express that highlighted alleged concerns raised by him regarding party functioning.
Responding to the reported allegations, Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring strongly rejected any suggestion that the party sidelines leaders from marginalised communities. Taking a firm stand, Warring questioned the narrative being circulated, asking who was made Chief Minister and who currently holds a position in the Congress Working Committee, indirectly pointing to Channi’s own rise within the party.
Raja Warring asserted that the Congress has a long history of empowering Dalits and marginalised sections, stressing that Dalits are not merely represented but are central to the party’s identity. He described them as the “crown of the Congress party,” underscoring the organisation’s commitment to inclusive leadership and social justice.
Political observers believe the exchange reflects internal dialogue rather than open confrontation, coming at a time when the Congress is preparing for crucial political challenges in Punjab. While Channi’s remarks appear to highlight grassroots expectations and organisational sensitivity, Warring’s response signals that the party leadership is keen to counter any perception that questions its commitment to equality and representation.
Charanjit Singh Channi expressed gratitude to the Congress for all leadership roles given to him. He said he raised farmers’ issues, MSP, and concerns of Sikhs and labourers in Parliament. Channi claimed responsibility during PM Modi’s Punjab visit to prevent cases against farmers. He compared the Congress to a bouquet that flourishes with equal representation. Punjab Congress chief Raja Warring dismissed allegations reported in the media and stressed that Dalits hold top positions in the party and remain central to its leadership.