The President of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC), Brijlal Khabri, is in hot water over unauthorized appointments of two working presidents in Jhansi and Jaunpur districts. The appointments have been cancelled by Congress Committee General Secretary K.C. Venugopal with immediate effect as Khabri did not follow proper organizational procedures. The move has sparked discussions within the party, with many questioning Khabri’s role as UPCC president.
Venugopal stated in a letter sent on May 29, 2023, that Khabri had appointed the working presidents without the approval of AICC President, making the appointments invalid. Khabri has since rushed to New Delhi to meet the party high command and explain his actions. It is believed he has already met senior party leaders and is expected to meet AICC President Mallikarjuna Kharge.
There is intense speculation in party circles about Khabri’s future as UPCC President. Although some party members support his continuation, others are critical and have accused him of large-scale irregularities in distributing party tickets during the election to urban local bodies.
Congress Legislature Party leader Aradhana Mishra believes that Khabri’s continuation as UPCC President should not be in doubt, though she agrees that the appointments made by Khabri were invalid and rightly canceled by party leadership.
The controversy surrounding Khabri’s appointment of the two working presidents could have serious repercussions for his leadership position. The party is expected to take a decision on Khabri’ s future role based on reports generated from meetings with senior leaders and the AICC President.
