‘Cong on strong wicket, but can’t be complacent’

FORMER Law Minister and senior Congress leader Ashwani Kumar feels the poll sentiment in Punjab is in favour of the Congress but that there is no room for complacency. In an interview with The Tribune reporter Aditi Tandon, he said post Pulwama and the IAF strikes on Pakistan’s Balakot there had been an upsurge in nationalism, but it remained to be seen how the sentiment would play itself out by the time Punjab went to the polls on May 19. Excerpts:  

Has the poll narrative changed after the IAF Balakot airstrikes? 

I can’t deny that post Pulwama there has been an upsurge in the nationalist sentiment. How it will play itself out in two months from now will depend on the competing narratives before the people. In my view, the Congress needs to offer a narrative rooted in the daily aspirations of the people and the idea of India based on genuine democracy, freedom and inclusiveness. 

What are the Congress prospects in Punjab these elections?  

The Congress is at a significant advantage in Punjab in terms of acceptance of CM Capt Amarinder Singh and the fact that in the past two years there has been no major complaint of misgovernance. That said, no election is over until it’s over and there can be no room for complacency. Disquiet in certain sections of the party needs to be addressed urgently. The recent statement of the CM in this regard is reassuring. 

What are the main challenges before the Punjab Congress? 

The main challenge is to ensure unity and cohesiveness in the party and to select the best and most acceptable candidates in each of the 13 constituenies to avoid heartburn. The Congress needs to fine-tune its strategy around a constructive action programme and not merely rely on divisions in the SAD. 

Will you be in the fray from Punjab? 

I’m not in the fray for this election but what the future holds only time will tell. The Punjab Congress needs to field candidates known for their commitment to national causes and who have the ability to win. It is equally important for political parties to give a chance to young leaders.