Punjab: Cong plans observer for 18-point agenda

Tribune News service

Chandigarh, September 16

For timely implementation of the 18-point agenda given by the party high command to Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh in the run-up to the 2022 Assembly elections, the top brass is likely to appoint an observer in the coming days.

After getting feedback from party leaders, especially the legislators who have been flagging the issue of delay in the implementation of the 18-point agenda, a senior leader may be appointed to oversee the redress of the issues.

The Chief Minister, during a recent interaction with Navjot Singh Sidhu and his four working presidents, had pointed out that all key issues of concern raised by the PCC chief were already in “advanced stages of resolution”.

Sources point out any intervention of the party high command at a time when the Chief Minister is in a comfortable position vis-à-vis his opponents within the party may have ramifications for the faction-prone Punjab Congress.

The Opposition has been alleging the BJP-led NDA government was likely to delay the state Assembly elections or impose President’s rule. After Punjab affairs in charge Harish Rawat, during his recent visit, had tried to defuse tension while advising the Chief Minister and the PCC chief to work as a team.

Already in ‘advanced stage of resolution’

• The CM has already told the PCC chief and his four deputies that all key issues of concern raised are in ‘advanced stages of resolution’
• Any high command intervention at a time when the CM is in a comfortable position vis-à-vis party opponents may have a bearing on faction-prone state unit