Cool Breeze: Congress’ Punjab Problem

Congress’ Punjab Problem

After being burnt by the appointment-and-resignation of Kamal Nath as the in-charge for the Punjab elections, the Congress is now looking for a replacement. Initial suggestions that former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit take the job have been nixed as this could lead to an extension of the AAP vs Dikshit fight in Delhi. Interestingly, it was the Aam Admi Party that spearheaded the agitation against Nath’s appointment. Congressmen are also wondering as to who was responsible for the “self goal” in suggesting Nath for the job in the first place, and whispers target Prashant Kishor. Regardless, the short list to replace Nath seems to have Sushilkumar Shinde at the top, keeping in mind Shinde’s Dalit credentials. But the Congress is waiting before it makes any announcement.

Lobbyist Raided

Lutyens’ Delhi is abuzz with whipsers about a well-connected lobbyist having been raided by the IT department. The said lobbyist finds a mention in former CBI chief Ranjit Sinha’s “Diarygate” too and was well connected with several UPA ministers and officials dating back to the Narasimha Rao regime. He has since been trying to make inroads with the current power regime as well. But what is interesting is the fact that the raid managed to stay away from the headlines. Which makes one wonder who all are keen to keep the limelight away from this particular networker.

AMU On Notice?

The state BJP in Uttar Pradesh has conveyed to the government at the Centre that the Aligarh Muslim University is not implementing the requisite SC, ST and OBC reservations. They want the Central government to look into the matter preferably before the Uttar Pradesh polls so that it can impact the Dalit vote bank in the state. According to sources, the violation is being treated with some urgency by the government.