Congress names Bhupesh Baghel senior observer for UP

The Congress president has appointed Bhupesh Bhagel, chief minister, Chhattisgarh, as AICC senior observer for the ensuing elections in Uttar Pradesh, with immediate effect," the Congress said in a statement. Baghel, who had played a crucial role in the Assam assembly elections with his team carrying out extensive booth training of party workers, has in the past discussed the preparations for the elections in UP with Congress general secretary in-charge Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

The appointment also assumes significance as it comes amid speculation over the possibility of a leadership change in Chhattisgarh where cabinet minister T S Singhdeo is vying for the top job in the state. Baghel's close associate Rajesh Tiwari was appointed as the AICC secretary in the State assisting general secretary in-charge Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Baghel’s political advisor Vinod Verma has also been stationed in U.P. for more than one month now.