Congress Highlights Power Struggles in Punjab Following AAP's Defeat in Delhi

Synopsis
On March 1, Congress leader Bhupesh Bhagel criticized the AAP's governance in Punjab, claiming a power struggle has begun post their loss in Delhi. He emphasized Congress's unity in tackling inefficiency and corruption while questioning the AAP's recent actions.
Key Takeaways
- Power struggles are emerging within the AAP after its loss.
- The Congress party is committed to exposing corruption.
- Bhagel criticized AAP's premature candidate announcements.
- Concerns raised about AAP's drug eradication plans.
- Congress aims to strengthen its organizational structure.
Chandigarh, March 1 (NationPress) The Congress general secretary responsible for Punjab, Bhupesh Bhagel, stated on Saturday that the ruling Aam Aadmi Party is facing internal turmoil following its significant loss in Delhi.
He indicated that the entire Congress leadership in the state stands united and is determined to expose, challenge, and oust the corrupt and ineffective government.
According to Bhagel, a struggle for power has already commenced, with the defeated leaders from Delhi beginning to exert influence over various government departments in Punjab.
During a media briefing after consultations with senior party officials, including MPs, MLAs, candidates who contested elections, and district presidents, Bhagel criticized the defeated AAP leaders in Delhi for taking on the roles of unofficial ministers within the Punjab government.
When asked about the Ludhiana (West) by-election, for which the AAP has prematurely announced a candidate despite the election not being scheduled, Bhagel remarked that the AAP's intention was to create a vacancy in the Rajya Sabha for Arvind Kejriwal after his loss in Delhi.
He mentioned that the Congress leadership in Punjab would compile a list of candidates for the upcoming by-election, with final selections made by the central leadership.
Responding to inquiries regarding the Punjab government's pledge to eradicate drugs within three months, the former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh questioned, “What has the government been doing for the past three years?”
He noted that the government has failed on all fronts and is now attempting to mask its shortcomings with grand proclamations that are more about rhetoric than tangible results.
He stated that the party has developed a strategic plan for year-long initiatives organized by the AICC. He added that the Punjab Congress Committee (PCC) and all associated organizations will participate in the ‘Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan’ rallies taking place nationwide. On the organizational front, he announced that within this year, the PCC will establish committees from the state level down to the booth level, engaging the entire party membership in various initiatives.