India's opposition INDIA bloc strained as Punjab BJP leadership shifts and unity debate erupts

The Punjab unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party replaced Sunil Jakhar with Kewal Dhillon, ending Jakhar's long run at the state party helm. Former chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh publicly questioned Dhillon's appointment, underscoring rising tensions within the state’s BJP ranks. In parallel, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi delivered a "third warning" to party officials after poor municipal poll results, urging stronger performance ahead of upcoming elections.

Nationally, Communist Party of India (CPI) General Secretary D Raja called on the opposition INDIA bloc to maintain unity and reject any move toward a third front. He highlighted recent strains between the Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu, stressing that the alliance must present a collective front against the ruling BJP and that the Congress should fulfil its responsibilities within the coalition.