Capt again meets Sonia amid PPCC rejig bid

Aditi Tandon

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, Sept 1

Changes in the Punjab Congress seem imminent: For a second time in a fortnight, former state Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today met party president Sonia Gandhi. Party sources said the talks focused on “Punjab affairs,” adding state party chief Partap Singh Bajwa has also been called for talks with Sonia tomorrow. 

The Captain has long been seeking replacement of Bajwa who enjoys Rahul Gandhi’s confidence. 

Party sources said these meetings indicate that changes in the Punjab party leadership are almost certain. The party is reportedly working on a formula to accommodate leaders from important communities in key positions.  Sources told The Tribune that along with the change of state party chief, the replacement of Congress Legislature Party leader is also being considered. Sunil Jakhar, the current CLP chief, is Capt’s favourite for the state party president’s post.  Sources said a Hindu leader could be named as PCC chief, with possibilities of senior leader Lal Singh, an OBC, being appointed CLP leader. 

Congress sources said Capt Amarinder could himself be named Punjab campaign committee chairman ahead of the 2017 state elections. Another post likely to be announced is that of Campaign Committee convenor for which discussions were on.