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VOL. 7, ISSUE 1 (2025)
Factionalism and political instability in Punjab Congress: Exploring leadership conflicts and electoral consequences
Authors
Navraj Singh
Abstract
Factionalism within political parties has been a defining characteristic of Indian politics, and the Punjab Congress stands as a prominent example of how intra-party conflicts shape political outcomes. This paper examines the historical and contemporary dimensions of factionalism within the Punjab Congress, focusing on the key factions, leadership struggles, and their broader impact on the party’s electoral performance and governance. The roots of factionalism in the Punjab Congress can be traced back to the post-independence era, when regional power centers and competing leadership ambitions created deep divisions within the party. Over the decades, prominent figures such as Giani Zail Singh, Darbara Singh, Amarinder Singh, and Rajinder Kaur Bhattal have shaped the internal dynamics of the party, often engaging in strategic maneuvering to consolidate power and influence candidate selection and policy decisions. The paper explores how factional conflicts have influenced the party’s electoral strategies and voter perception. The internal rivalry between Amarinder Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu in the 2010s and early 2020s exposed the fragile nature of party unity and weakened the Congress’s standing in the state. The paper argues that factionalism has not only affected the party’s ability to present a united front during elections but has also compromised its governance capabilities, as internal conflicts have delayed policy implementation and decision-making processes. Moreover, the strategic alliances and defections resulting from factional rivalries have altered the political balance in Punjab, allowing rival parties like the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to capitalize on Congress's internal instability. By analyzing leadership patterns, electoral performance, and policy outcomes, this paper provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of factionalism in shaping the political landscape of Punjab. The study concludes that resolving factional disputes and strengthening internal cohesion are crucial for the Punjab Congress to reclaim its political dominance in the state.
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Pages:25-28
How to cite this article:
Navraj Singh "Factionalism and political instability in Punjab Congress: Exploring leadership conflicts and electoral consequences". International Journal of Educational Research and Development, Vol 7, Issue 1, 2025, Pages 25-28
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