In Punjab, a look at key factors why Congress had last laugh

Here are some of the factors that helped the Congress put up a good show in the Lok Sabha polls, leading in seven of the total 13 seats.

Fielding prominent faces

The Congress chose to fight on the front foot, fielding its key leaders including former chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi, state party chief

Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, and former deputy CM Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa. These prominent leaders undertook vigorous and dynamic campaigns in their respective constituencies, getting their supporters to rally behind them.

Party unity

Known for its factionalism and infighting, the Congress managed to overcome these problems to present a united front in the polls. With over a dozen of its leaders facing various charges registered by the AAP government, the party came together like never before. As Gurjeet Singh Aujla, the party’s candidate from Amritsar, put it, “We are united for a bigger cause.”

Anti-incumbency

The public disillusionment with the AAP dispensation played a significant role in the Congress’s success. Dissatisfied with the Mann government’s performance, many voters, who had shifted their allegiance to the AAP during the 2022 Assembly elections, returned to the grand old party.

Farmers’ support

The Congress was boosted by the support it got from farmers. The party leaders tacitly backed the ongoing farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border while maintaining good relations with traders. The party also promised to waive farmers’ debts if it would return to power at the Centre.

The party also got the backing of late singer Sidhu Moosewala’s father Balkar Singh. Balkar’s influence had an impact on youth voters in some Malwa seats in the state.

Focus on local concerns

The Congress addressed local concerns by crafting a detailed vision document that resonated with the electorate. By concentrating on specific local issues and factors, the party was able to connect with voters more effectively.