Photo Source: Babushai Bureau
Breaking: Raja Warring breaks the silence on Channi's meeting; Here's what he said; Watch Video
Says Channi is a senior leader free to meet the party high command; rules out himself from CM race, warns of action against indiscipline
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 4, 2026: Punjab Congress President Amrinder Singh Raja Warring on Saturday dismissed reports of factionalism within the party following a meeting at former Chief Minister and MP Charanjit Singh Channi’s residence, asserting that the Congress remains united and that all senior leaders would soon be seen together on one platform.
Speaking to the media, Warring said there was nothing unusual about Congress leaders gathering at Channi’s residence, describing the former Chief Minister as a senior leader and Chairman of the party’s Campaign Committee.
“Channi Sahib is our elder brother, a senior leader and former Chief Minister. If some Congress leaders meet at his house, there is nothing wrong with that. Tomorrow, leaders may gather at my residence or at Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa’s home as well. That should not be interpreted as infighting,” Warring said.
He added that Rahul Gandhi and the Congress high command hold Channi in high regard and that there is nothing inappropriate about the former Chief Minister meeting the party leadership.
Rejecting speculation about internal divisions, Warring said there is “no factionalism” in the Punjab Congress and expressed confidence that all senior leaders would appear together on a common stage within the next one or two days.
Warning on party discipline
Taking a firm stand on party discipline, Warring said no leader, including himself, is above the organisation’s rules.
“No one is allowed to cross the party’s limits, even if that person is the state president. Everyone must know their boundaries,” he said.
While clarifying that neither Channi nor any other senior leader had acted against party interests, Warring said strict action would be taken against those former MLAs or leaders found making statements against the party or indulging in indiscipline.
He also urged party workers to exercise restraint and introspect before making public statements.
‘Not in the race for Chief Minister’
Responding to demands from some quarters to project Charanjit Singh Channi as the Congress’ chief ministerial face for the next Assembly elections, Warring said the decision rests solely with the party’s central leadership.
“I have no authority to declare the Chief Ministerial face. That decision will be taken by Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge,” he said.
Warring also ruled himself out of the race for the top post.
“Raja Warring is not in the race to become Chief Minister. My only objective is to bring the Congress back to power in Punjab. Whoever the high command chooses as the CM face, I will stand firmly behind that person,” he said.
Defends Randhawa’s meeting with Amit Shah
Responding to questions over senior Congress leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa’s recent meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Warring said Randhawa had already clarified that the meeting was held to discuss Punjab’s law and order situation, gangster activity and border-related issues.
“He did not go there to embrace anyone or leave the Congress. He is a committed Congressman,” Warring said.
Taking a swipe at the BJP, the Punjab Congress chief said that despite the BJP’s efforts to expand in the state, the people of Punjab continue to stand with the Congress and would not allow the party to gain political ground in Punjab.