The Congress’ ‘Dalit face’ in the Punjab polls Charanjit Singh Channi, who was away from public appearances Since May 3, after a humiliating defeat in Punjab, is back. On Monday, Channi met Congress president, Mallikarjun Kharge and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. He even posted a photo on Twitter, congratulating Priyanka Gandhi for “the party’s historic victory in Himachal Pradesh polls”.
Five months ahead of the Punjab elections Channi replaced Captain Amarinder Singh, as the CM of Punjab to stop internal fighting. Several congress leaders did not want Singh to remain the CM. But, Channi’s induction as a CM created a feud between Sidhu – though it was quelled by Gandhis, it affected badly Congress’s performance in the state.
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Congress’ chief ministerial candidate Channi contested from two constituencies, Chamkaur Sahib and Bhadaur – but lost both seats. Now, as “Bharat Jodo Yatra” is to enter Punjab in January, the timing of his arrival is crucial. Congress is going through restructuring in the state unit after a humiliating defeat in Punjab, reports suggest he will discuss “his role in the state unit”.
During his leave, Channi spent his time in the United States and Canada and reportedly worked on his Ph.D.
