New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has opposed the bid by some Congress leaders to challenge the Gandhi family leadership. Amarinder Singh has said that this is not the time to raise such an issue.
In a statement, Amarinder said the need today is for a strong opposition against the BJP-led NDA. The BJP-led NDA is out to destroy India’s constitutional ethos and democratic principles. The veteran Congress leader said the NDA’s success was attributable to the absence of a strong and united Opposition.
“The move by these Congress leaders to demand a re-haul of the party at this critical juncture would be detrimental to its interests. This will also be against the interests of the nation,” Amarinder said.
“What the Congress needs is a leadership that is acceptable not just to a few but to the entire party through its rank and file. Sonia Gandhi should continue to helm the Congress as long as she wants. Then Rahul Gandhi should thereafter take over as he is fully competent to lead the party,” ahead Amarinder.
Also read: Manmohan Singh wanted to step down, make Rahul PM, reveals Congress leader
Ahead of the Congress Working Committee meeting Monday, different voices have emerged within the party. One section comprising sitting MPs and former ministers have demanded a collective leadership. Another group has sought the return of Rahul Gandhi to the helm.
Some Congress leaders, including ex-ministers, have written to party president Sonia Gandhi for the overhaul of the organisational structure. They have also asked her to make changes to the leadership.
The letter by former ministers and some MPs was believed to have been written a few weeks ago. It sets the stage for a stormy Congress Working Committee meeting Monday where issues flagged by dissenters are expected to be discussed and debated.
