Senior leadership of the Punjab Congress has come out in strong support of party leader Rahul Gandhi after he labeled former colleague Ravneet Singh Bittu as a 'traitor'. This development follows the BJP's accusation that the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha questioned the sacrifices of the Sikh community through his remarks.
Congress Leaders Defend Gandhi's Statement
Jalandhar MP and former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi stated, "Today at the gate, there was a conversation between Rahul Gandhi and Ravneet Singh Bittu where Rahul Gandhi called him a 'gaddar dost' (traitor friend). Rahul Gandhi had given him everything... he quit the party when he was needed most during elections. It is well known that he betrayed the party, so I fully support what Rahul Gandhi said."
Bajwa's Strong Social Media Post
Leader of Opposition in Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Partap Singh Bajwa, posted on social media platform X, "Rahul Gandhi called a spade a spade when he pointed out that Ravneet Bittu betrayed the ideology of his parent party, the legacy of his grandfather, and the larger cause of a secular, united India. He owes his entire political existence to the Congress; biting the hand that fed him cannot be repackaged as patriotism."
Bajwa further criticized the BJP's response, stating, "The BJP's attempt to wrap this defection in the tricolour is nothing but a fig leaf for political opportunism. As Samuel Johnson rightly observed, 'Patriotism is the last refuge of the scoundrel'. No amount of chest-thumping can turn betrayal into bravery."
Clarification on Sikh Community Insult Claims
Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira clarified that the word 'traitor' was specifically directed at Bittu as an individual who abandoned the party during challenging times. He emphasized that this was by no means an insult to the Sikh community, contrary to what BJP leaders like Hardeep Puri have portrayed.
Khaira elaborated, "It is common knowledge that Congress always rewarded Ravneet Bittu... made him MP three times from Punjab. Ravneet Bittu has been rejected by Punjab and does not represent the state or the Sikh community in any meaningful way."
Former Minister's Emotional Appeal
Former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu expressed sadness over Bittu's actions, particularly his description of Congress leaders as 'desh ke dushman' (enemies of the nation). Ashu posted on social media, "I would advise him to introspect and reflect on how he reached this position. Bittu owes his political journey to the Gandhi family, who supported him in becoming an MP thrice. Becoming a poster boy of the BJP does not justify forgetting one's roots, abusing those who stood by you, or betraying the party and leadership that shaped your career."
Political Context and Implications
The controversy stems from a recent incident outside the Lok Sabha where Rahul Gandhi extended his hand for a handshake, which Ravneet Singh Bittu refused. This public rejection appears to have triggered the strong language from the Congress leader, leading to the current political storm.
The unified support from Punjab Congress leaders indicates a strategic consolidation behind Rahul Gandhi's leadership approach. Their statements collectively emphasize that Bittu's departure during election season constitutes betrayal rather than legitimate political disagreement.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Congress and BJP in Punjab politics, with both parties attempting to frame the narrative around loyalty, betrayal, and community representation. The Congress leadership's coordinated response suggests they view this as a crucial moment to reinforce party discipline and loyalty among remaining members.
