News Brief
Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu (Photo credit: MONEY SHARMA/AFP/GettyImages)
In a dramatic turn of events within the Punjab Congress, a group of party leaders, including an MLA, has urged the high command to expel Navjot Singh Sidhu, citing actions that allegedly go against the party's interests.
This comes amid simmering factionalism within the party, with accusations of sidelining and exclusion.
As reported by Indian Express, the rift became evident when five former legislators, consistently seen alongside the cricketer-turned-politician, claimed they were not invited to any recent events organised by the state unit.
In response to this, senior party leader Partap Singh Bajwa criticised Sidhu for organising separate rallies and urged him to join party programmes instead.
Bajwa also extended an invitation to Sidhu for upcoming protests, emphasising the need for unity.
However, Sidhu's loyalists defended their rally, saying it was for the party's betterment.
Sidhu's supporters also accused the state leadership of discrimination, claiming they were not given due respect.
Meanwhile, Sidhu shared posts blaming Bajwa for the decline in Congress seats.
Subsequently, a joint statement by party leaders called for Sidhu's expulsion, citing indiscipline and failure in the 2022 elections.
The statement emphasised Sidhu's actions went against collective efforts, and his self-glorification harmed the party.
Gurdaspur MLA Barindermeet Singh Pahra and other leaders signed the statement, urging the Congress high command to act.
As internal discord continues, questions arise about the Punjab Congress's unity and prospects in future elections.
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