Raja Warring says after Rahul Gandhi meet: “I resigned voluntarily, now need some rest”

Punjab Newsline | New Delhi/Chandigarh

By : Samriti Sharma

Congress MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring on Friday formally submitted his resignation as Punjab Congress president to party leader Rahul Gandhi during a meeting at 10 Janpath in New Delhi.

Warring met Rahul Gandhi at his residence and held discussions with him for nearly an hour. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Warring said he had resigned voluntarily and was not asked to step down.

“I have formally submitted my resignation. I resigned voluntarily. No one asked me to resign,” Warring said.

He said the meeting focused on the political situation in Punjab and the challenges facing the state Congress. Warring added that he also shared his experience of nearly four-and-a-half years as Punjab Congress president.

“We discussed the situation in Punjab, what should be done and the challenges before us. I also shared my experience of four-and-a-half years as state Congress president,” he said.

Warring appeared disappointed while speaking to reporters, although he maintained that he had no regrets. When asked about his reaction, he said, “I am always happy.”

The former Punjab Congress chief also said he now needed some time to rest. “I feel I should take a few days' break,” he said.

However, Warring made it clear that his association with the Congress would continue. He said he would remain available to the party and would stand with it whenever and wherever his services were required.

“Who says what does not matter to me. My association with the Congress will remain as strong as before. Whenever and wherever the party needs me, I will be there,” he said.

Warring also expressed his loyalty to Rahul Gandhi, saying that he had received his support and goodwill. He indicated that his resignation from the state party post would not affect his commitment to the Congress.

He further explained the party's practice regarding changes in organisational positions, saying that resignations are generally not “taken” from leaders. Instead, a formal communication is issued thanking them for their service.

Warring's resignation comes around three months ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections, making the leadership change significant for the state Congress as the party prepares for the electoral battle.