Tensions within Punjab Congress: High command orders probe into Navjot Kaur Sidhu’s remarks
PTC Web Desk: The turmoil inside the Punjab Congress has intensified after a series of controversial statements by Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu, former MLA and wife of ex-Punjab Congress chief Navjot Singh Sidhu. Her remarks, which sparked sharp internal reactions, have prompted the Congress high command to initiate a high-level probe and demand an immediate explanation.
The crisis escalated after Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu allegedly claimed that the post of Chief Minister in Punjab could be secured for “Rs 500 crore,” a statement that triggered shockwaves within the party. She also levelled allegations against several senior Congress leaders, accusing them of ticket selling, corruption and mismanagement during elections in both Punjab and Rajasthan. Several of her comments, including those targeting Raja Warring, former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu and other functionaries, angered many within the organisation.
Over the past few weeks, Dr Navjot Kaur has received four separate notices from the party. These notices were issued after she accused Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa of having links with smugglers, claimed that Rajasthan tickets were sold for crores, and alleged that former Rajasthan candidate Karan Singh Gurjar bought tickets worth Rs 5–5.5 crore. She also questioned the leadership of certain PCC presidents and suggested that some leaders interfered to protect corrupt individuals.
One of the notices pertains to her allegation that several Congress workers were denied tickets in exchange for money during the Rajasthan Assembly elections. Another notice references her accusation that specific leaders attempted to shield individuals facing corruption and cheque-bounce cases.
Responding to the growing controversy, the Congress high command has formed a panel headed by Punjab in-charge Bhupesh Baghel to examine the remarks in detail. The committee has been asked to submit a comprehensive report at the earliest. Party sources indicate that the leadership is upset over the public outbursts at a time when the Congress is preparing for the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections and attempting to project organisational unity.
Significantly, despite the storm around his wife’s statements, Navjot Singh Sidhu has maintained complete silence. Although reports emerged of his travel between Amritsar and Mumbai, he has avoided the media. However, sources confirm that Sidhu has sought an appointment with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, expressing his desire to present his position before the party takes any disciplinary action.
Party insiders believe the high command is considering strict disciplinary steps, which could potentially lead to Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu’s expulsion from the Congress. Many leaders have privately expressed concern that her statements have given political ammunition to rivals at a critical time.
- PTC NEWS
