26 March
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
In a significant political upheaval, Ravneet Singh Bittu, the current Member of Parliament representing Congress from Ludhiana, has crossed party lines to join the BJP. This move is being viewed as a major setback for the Punjab Congress, particularly in the lead-up to the Lok Sabha elections.
Bittu, a prominent figure within the Punjab Congress and known for his close association with Rahul Gandhi, made his transition official at the BJP headquarters in Delhi, in the presence of Union Minister Vinod Tawde. Having served as a Congress MP for the third consecutive term, Bittu’s defection marks a notable shift in the state’s political landscape.
Hailing from a legacy deeply rooted in Punjab politics, as the grandson of former Chief Minister Beant Singh, Bittu expressed gratitude towards BJP leaders, particularly Amit Shah, for extending the opportunity to join their ranks. Emphasizing his familial ties to the Shaheed family and his commitment to Punjab’s welfare, Bittu pledged to serve as a liaison between the central government and the state.
With a focus on agricultural reforms, Bittu highlighted the contentious issue of the recent agriculture bills, attributing their inception to the Akali Dal and stressing the need for constructive dialogue and collaboration to address the concerns of Punjab’s farmers, shopkeepers, and industries.
As Bittu embarks on this new political journey, his defection underscores the dynamic and evolving landscape of Punjab politics, setting the stage for intensified campaigning and strategizing ahead of the upcoming elections.