Focus on governance
The first two weeks of the Congress government led by Charanjit Singh Channi have witnessed unwanted turbulence rather than much-needed governance. The ‘dramatic’ resignation of Navjot Singh Sidhu as PPCC chief — following bitter disagreement over key appointments — tied down the ruling dispensation even before it could take baby steps towards improving the delivery of public services. Being a first-time CM, Channi obviously needs some time to find his feet; the same is true for his deputies Sukhjinder Randhawa and OP Soni. However, with the model code of conduct likely to be enforced in the poll-bound state by late December or early January, the government barely has three months to get its act together. The formation of a panel comprising Channi, Sidhu and the AICC general secretary in charge of Punjab affairs, which would meet at least once a week to discuss major government decisions and appointments, is expected to help in settling things down, provided the trio is able to develop consensus on contentious issues.
Any move that undermines the CM’s authority would impact the credibility of the state government as well as the ruling party. Capt Amarinder Singh has claimed that during his two terms as CM, he was in complete command of the government. It’s up to the Congress to have a monolithic model or promote two power centres. Walking a tightrope, the high command has said that both Channi and Sidhu would be the party’s face(s) in the 2022 elections. Sooner or later, the top brass would have to take a call on the chief ministerial candidate.
The new government finds itself under intense scrutiny from all quarters. Voters might become reluctant to re-elect the Congress if the infighting keeps causing disruptions, opening a window of opportunity for the Opposition parties. Congress leaders who are busy shuttling between Chandigarh and New Delhi, instead of reaching out to the electorate across the state, are not inspiring confidence among the people. It’s only a stable and strong government — performing better than its predecessor — which can boost the Congress’ electoral prospects.
