Asserting that the party has not received any indication or directives from the high command concerning the formation of alliances for the 2024 general elections, Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring on Tuesday emphasized that the state unit has been directed to prepare thoroughly for the contest on all 13 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Warring, interacting with the media before chairing the weekly meeting with district party chiefs, highlighted the unequivocal directive from the Congress high command, emphasizing the need for comprehensive preparations to contest all 13 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

“There is a message from the party high command that you make preparations for contesting all 13 seats,” he said while unveiling the party's roadmap for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Listing the key directives from the Congress high command besides shedding light on the party's stance regarding potential alliances and candidate selection, Warring stressed that the party leadership is actively seeking details about potential candidates, taking into consideration caste combinations, and ensuring equitable representation across diverse sections of society.

“We have engaged in comprehensive discussions regarding campaign strategies, potential candidates, and electoral prospects. Leaders within the Punjab Congress have been advised to remain prepared for the upcoming elections…The final decision on serious contenders would rest with the All India Congress Committee (AICC) president Mallikarjun Kharge, along with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. Merit would be the primary criterion for allocating seats, besides ensuring equitable representation,” he said.

Warring added, “People will be chosen based on their qualifications, with no consideration given to sentimental attachments or past affiliations. Only candidates possessing the requisite merit will be nominated for various electoral constituencies.”

At the same time, he clarified that, as of now, there is no communication from the high command regarding an alliance with any other political entity for the 2024 elections. “If any message comes (from the high command) that you fight elections jointly or enter any alliance, it has not been given till now,” Warring affirmed.

He reiterated that the party remains committed to follow the directives of the high command and any decisions regarding alliances or joint campaigns would be promptly communicated if and when they arise.

The development assumes significance in the backdrop of ongoing speculations about potential alliances, particularly with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), in Punjab; considering that the two parties are a part of the national-level Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Notably, the constituent members of INDIA have been urging a swift decision on seat sharing, emphasizing the need for ample time for campaigning and strategic planning.

The Congress leaders in Punjab have all along been expressing reservations about aligning with the AAP, while the AAP leaders, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, have expressed confidence in winning all 13 Lok Sabha seats in the State.

Open Arms for Moosewala's Father

Meanwhile, Warring extended an open invitation to Balkaur Singh, the father of the slain Punjabi singer-rapper Sidhu Moosewala, to join the electoral fray if he expresses interest.  Notably, Sidhu Moosewala had unsuccessfully contested the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections on the Congress ticket from Mansa in February. In May the same year, he was tragically shot dead. “If he expresses interest or if he wants, then Balkaur Singh ji will be most welcome,” said Warring, responding to media queries.

Warring affirmed that the party holds the Moosewala family in high regard and would respect any decision they make regarding political participation. “The Moosewala family holds a special place within our ranks, and if either Balkaur Singh Ji or Mata Ji express a desire to participate, we will embrace them wholeheartedly,” said Warring, while emphasizing that the family’s wishes would be paramount in determining any potential candidacy.

The state Congress chief also chaired a review meeting with District Congress Committee presidents and contested candidates. The meeting aimed to assess the party's preparedness for the upcoming elections, address any concerns raised by party leaders, and reinforce the collective pursuit of electoral objectives.