AMRITSAR: Despite homecoming by Raj Kumar Verka, Congress turncoat who defected to the BJP only to retrace his steps back to the Congress fold, the path to regain his lost influence in his home constituency-Amritsar West appears to be fraught with challenges, particularly in light of the emergence of new Congress leaders who have cultivated their presence in the region resulting in a complex situation that isolates him within his own political stronghold.Three-time MLA, twice from Amritsar West (SC) constituency, Raj Kumar Verka had left Congress to join BJP on June 5, 2022 but realizing he had committed a mistake, Verka on October 13, 2023 made his homecoming.Former cabinet minister in Charnjit Singh Channis government, Verkas indecisiveness has left the Congress leaders of the Amritsar West assembly constituency bewildered as a few of them had initiated groundwork in the constituency, nurturing hopes not only of securing party tickets for the next assembly elections but also of gaining the authority to nominate candidates of their preference for the Amritsar Municipal Corporation elections.Speaking cautiously, Balbir Singh alias Babbi Pehalwan who, like Verka also yield significant influence among the voters in the West constituency said, "We are akin to brothers, united in our dedication to the party and the constituents. Ultimately, the welfare of the people and the partys growth should take precedence, regardless of who ultimately secures the assembly ticket.Expressing deep concern, Congress leader Vijay Kumar told about the pressing challenges faced by the constituency. He pointed out at the contaminated water supply, leading to the spread of diseases, the easy availability of illicit substances like liquor and drugs, and the menace of stray dogs, all of which have long plagued the area. He said that the neglect of these crucial problems by past MLAs, including those from his own party, had exacerbated the suffering of the people. Senior sources in Congress indicated that turncoats may not receive the same rewards and recognition as those loyal members who stood by the party during challenging times. Indeed, the party holds a firm commitment in recognizing the dedication and loyalty of its longstanding members, particularly in times of adversity," said sources familiar with the recent homecoming of Congress leaders adding that the competition for influence had already commenced and was expected to intensify, reaching its peak during the upcoming civic body elections.

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