Patiala: Two rival groups join hands ahead of Gymkhana Club poll

Patiala, August 24

Once considered to be strong opponent factions, the United Progressive Group led by Dr Manmohan Singh and Goodwill Group led by Dr Sudhir Verma of Rajindra Gymkhana Club have announced a merger.

The merger is set to bring substantial benefits to the 2,850 members of the club, said honorary secretary Harpreet Singh Sandhu.

Both groups forged a truce a few months ahead of the club elections. Considered to be a high-stake political event involving ruling and opposition parties, the club elections sees candidates and their groups trying to woo voters through various means, including dinner diplomacy and social media campaigns.

Sandhu said it was mutually decided to focus on the development of the club. By merging, they aim to implement a series of initiatives designed to improve the facilities, services, and overall atmosphere of the club.

In a joint statement, Dr Manmohan Singh and Dr Sudhir Verma expressed their commitment to working together for the greater good of the club and its members. They stated that the focus would be on infrastructure development, services, community building, health and wellness and sustainability initiatives.