BJP Leader Visits Amarinder Singh in Hospital Amid Congress Reunion Speculation
In a significant political development, Punjab BJP working president Ashwani Sharma visited former chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh at a private hospital in Mohali on Friday. The visit occurred as speculation mounts about Singh potentially rejoining the Congress party. Singh is currently undergoing medical treatment at the facility, and Sharma took the opportunity to enquire about his health and well-being.
Praise and Support from BJP Leader
During the hospital visit, Ashwani Sharma expressed admiration for Captain Amarinder Singh's political career. He stated that Singh has made substantial and noteworthy contributions to the politics of Punjab and the entire nation. Sharma described Singh's long-standing service to the people as highly commendable and praiseworthy.
Sharma emphasized that during this challenging period of health concerns, the entire BJP family stands firmly with Captain Sahib and his family members. He offered prayers for Singh's swift and complete recovery, wishing him a long life and robust health so that he may continue his public service endeavors in the future.
Congress Open to Reunion Amid Legal Scrutiny
The hospital visit follows a statement from AICC general secretary and Punjab affairs in-charge Bhupesh Baghel on Thursday. Baghel indicated that if Captain Amarinder Singh expresses a desire to return to the Congress party, the high command would certainly consider the matter. This remark has fueled widespread speculation about a possible political comeback for the former chief minister.
This development comes in the wake of the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) summoning Captain Amarinder Singh and his son Raninder Singh. The summons relate to a 2016 case involving alleged violations of foreign exchange rules under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).
Political Reactions and Criticisms
Extending support to the former chief minister, Congress MLA Pargat Singh criticized the BJP over the ED summons. He alleged that central agencies moved against Amarinder Singh shortly after he publicly questioned his position within the BJP and remarked that the party does not fully understand the nuances of Punjab's political landscape.
Last year, Amarinder Singh stirred considerable political discussion by describing the BJP as "rigid" in its operational style, contrasting it with the Congress, which he termed more flexible and consultative in its internal decision-making processes. He pointed to a perceived lack of engagement with ground-level workers in the BJP, noting that decisions are often made at the top without sufficient consultation.
In comparison, Singh stated that while the Congress also makes decisions at the national level, its leadership actively seeks inputs and feedback from state units, fostering a more inclusive approach. These comments have added layers to the ongoing political dynamics in Punjab, highlighting tensions and potential realignments.
