Chandigarh, 30 May (H.S.): Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Captain Amarinder Singh has openly expressed his displeasure over the appointment of Kewal Singh Dhillon as the new president of the Punjab Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In an interview, Captain Amarinder said that while Dhillon is a long-time friend, friendship and political capability are two different things. He stated that, in his view, Dhillon may not be the most suitable choice to lead the party in Punjab.

Captain Amarinder Singh said he was not consulted before the appointment was made. He remarked that during his time in the Congress, important organizational decisions were generally taken after consulting senior leaders, whereas in the BJP, decisions are often made at the top level without wider consultation.

Questioning the decision, he said that although Kewal Singh Dhillon had remained active in politics, his performance at the grassroots level had not been strong enough to justify leading a major political organization like the Punjab BJP. Captain said he was disappointed at being completely sidelined in such an important decision.

The former Chief Minister also questioned the removal of former Punjab BJP presidents Sunil Jakhar and Ashwani Sharma. He described both leaders as strong pillars of the party who had been performing their responsibilities effectively. According to him, the consequences of this decision will become visible in the coming days and may affect many long-time party workers and leaders.

Commenting on the BJP’s move to project a Jat Sikh face ahead of future elections, Captain Amarinder said political parties should think beyond caste and community considerations and focus on what is best for Punjab. He emphasized that the Dalit community also plays a crucial role in the state's electoral politics and that voting patterns ultimately determine election outcomes.

Captain further reiterated that the BJP alone may find it difficult to win elections in Punjab. Stressing the need for political stability and security in the state, he advocated for a renewed alliance between the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Referring to the party’s performance in recent municipal elections, he argued that without a strong grassroots base, electoral success would remain a challenge.

Dismissing speculation about a return to the Congress party, Captain Amarinder Singh said there is no question of him rejoining Congress. He added that his daughter, Jai Inder Kaur, is actively working within the BJP and that he too will remain associated with the party. He also criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, alleging that key decisions concerning Punjab are being controlled from Delhi.

Notably, on May 28, Captain Amarinder Singh had publicly congratulated Kewal Singh Dhillon on social media platform X following his appointment as Punjab BJP president and wished him success in strengthening the party across the state.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH