Congress Expels Navjot Kaur Sidhu Amid Political Controversy
In a significant political development, the Congress party has officially expelled Navjot Kaur Sidhu, the wife of former Punjab Congress chief Navjot Singh Sidhu. This action follows a series of contentious statements made by Kaur, which have sparked a major row within the party ranks.
Expulsion Announcement and Immediate Backlash
On Friday, AICC general secretary Bhupesh Baghel confirmed the expulsion, stating that Kaur had been suspended earlier but was now permanently removed from the party. This announcement came just seven days after Kaur claimed she had resigned from the Congress, adding fuel to the ongoing political drama.
Reacting sharply to the expulsion, Navjot Kaur Sidhu took a direct dig at senior party leader Rahul Gandhi, referring to him as "Pappu"—a derogatory moniker often used by his detractors. In a social media post, she declared, "Pappu has finally put a stamp on his name," implying that Gandhi's leadership decisions have solidified his perceived incompetence.
Background of the Suspension and Resignation Claims
The controversy traces back to December 8, 2025, when the Congress suspended Kaur from primary membership. This suspension was a response to her explosive claim that "one who gives a suitcase of Rs 500 crore" becomes the party's chief ministerial face in Punjab, suggesting corruption within the selection process.
On January 31, 2026, Kaur further escalated the situation by announcing her resignation from the Congress via social media. However, the party's recent expulsion indicates that her departure was not voluntary but enforced due to her continued criticism and allegations.
Kaur's Scathing Critique of Rahul Gandhi
In her posts, Kaur did not hold back in her criticism of Rahul Gandhi. She described him as a "leader who thinks that he is the only honest and knowledgeable person" but is "totally unaware of the ground realities." She accused his inner circle of keeping him "in exile" while they enjoy luxuries and "sell tickets" for party positions long before decisions are made.
She also highlighted what she perceives as Gandhi's slow response to emergencies, stating, "He takes more than six months to react to an emergency call by which time the loss is inevitable." Kaur challenged Gandhi to ensure his supporters are honest and willing to work selflessly for Punjab, rather than being preoccupied with personal gains.
Political History and Speculations
Navjot Kaur Sidhu has a varied political background. She was elected as an MLA from Amritsar East in 2012 on a BJP ticket and served as chief parliamentary secretary in the SAD-BJP coalition government. Known for her hands-on approach, she gained recognition for conducting midnight raids on medical centers to expose healthcare scams in Punjab.
In April 2016, she resigned from the BJP due to differences with the party leadership and later joined the Congress alongside her husband. Under the Congress-led government, she was appointed director and chairperson of the Punjab Warehousing Corporation in 2018.
Despite speculation, Kaur has denied any plans to join the BJP, emphasizing that her focus remains on serving the people of Punjab without political affiliations. Her husband, Navjot Singh Sidhu, has maintained silence on her outbursts against Congress leaders, including PPCC chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and Gurdaspur MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa.
Implications for Congress and Punjab Politics
This expulsion marks another chapter in the ongoing turmoil within the Punjab Congress, highlighting internal discord and leadership challenges. As the party navigates these issues, Kaur's outspoken criticism and departure could influence voter perceptions and party dynamics in the state.
The situation underscores the broader struggles within the Congress to maintain unity and address allegations of corruption and inefficiency, as voiced by former members like Navjot Kaur Sidhu.
