Congress leader Tariq Anwar backs CM Channi

"In a democratic party, people have the right to express their opinions. But it is very clear that party has full faith in Charanjeet Singh Channi and the next elections will be contested under his leadership," he said.

New Delhi: Even after the appointment of a new chief minister in Punjab, the infighting doesn't seem to get an end within the state unit of the Congress party. Earlier today, the former Pradesh Congress Committee Chief of Punjab Sunil Jakhar reacted sharply over the statement given by party's state in-charge Harish Rawat by tweeting, "On the swearing-in day of Sh @Charanjit_Channi as Chief Minister, Mr Rawat's statement that "elections will be fought under Sidhu", is baffling. It's likely to undermine CM's authority but also negate the very 'raison d'être of his selection for this position."

However, the party got into damage control mode after this statement as Congress general secretary Tariq Anwar said over this matter, "In our party, the head of Pradesh Congress Committee is the most important person and he/she has the responsibility of the organization. So, it is obvious that he will look after the organization and under his leadership, PCC will contest the upcoming elections."

"In a democratic party, people have the right to express their opinions. But it is very clear that party has full faith in Charanjeet Singh Channi and the next elections will be contested under his leadership," he reacted to Jakhar's statement. Earlier in the day, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also made a similar attempt, by saying, "Media please do not spread confusion and stop attacking a Dalit Chief Minister. Charanjeet Singh Channi will be our face as Chief Minister and Sidhu as state president."