Navjot Kaur Sidhu Exits Congress, Hails PM Modi on Eve of Punjab Visit
In a significant political development in Amritsar, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, the namesake wife of former Punjab Congress chief Navjot Singh Sidhu, announced her resignation from the Congress party on Saturday. This move came just a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Punjab, adding a dramatic twist to the state's political landscape.
Social Media Praise and Criticism
Through a series of posts on social media platform X, Navjot Kaur Sidhu expressed strong admiration for Prime Minister Modi while launching scathing attacks against those opposing his visit. She declared that she was leaving the Congress, which she described as a party "where no promising leader is heard." In her messages, she emphasized welcoming "Modiji with loving hearts" and criticized political opponents for attempting to disrupt what she termed his "homecoming" to the state.
Background of Suspension and Allegations
Navjot Kaur Sidhu's relationship with the Congress had been strained since December 8 last year when she was suspended by the party. The suspension followed controversial remarks she made against the Congress leadership, including an explosive allegation that "Rs 500 crore in a suitcase" was required to secure the Punjab chief minister's position. Her recent social media activity has reignited speculation about the Sidhus potentially returning to the BJP, though no official confirmation has been provided regarding such a move.
Contrasting Governance Models
On the eve of Prime Minister Modi's visit, the former MLA drew sharp comparisons between different governance approaches. She praised Modi's tenure as Gujarat chief minister, highlighting what she called accountability, transparency, and effective utilization of central funds. This praise stood in stark contrast to her criticism of the current AAP-led Punjab government, which she accused of corruption and policy failures.
Targeted Criticism of Congress Leadership
Navjot Kaur Sidhu reserved particularly harsh words for Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, who had originally suspended her from the party. She labeled him as "incapable and corrupt" and accused him of systematically destroying the Congress from within. Her criticism extended to what she described as selective disciplinary action within the party, noting that while she faced suspension, other senior Congress leaders who challenged the party leadership reportedly faced no such consequences.
Political Implications and Future Speculation
The timing of Navjot Kaur Sidhu's resignation and her vocal support for Prime Minister Modi has created considerable political buzz in Punjab. Her reference to a "homecoming" in social media posts has fueled widespread speculation about potential political realignments, particularly regarding the Sidhus' future political affiliations. As Punjab prepares for Prime Minister Modi's visit, this development adds another layer to the complex political dynamics in the state, where multiple parties are vying for influence ahead of crucial electoral battles.
