Is Congress Leader Navjot Kaur Suspended for Her 'Rs 500 Crore CM' Comment?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Navjot Kaur's suspension highlights ongoing issues within the Congress party.
- Allegations of financial influence in politics raise questions about integrity.
- Political responses reveal the contentious atmosphere in Punjab's political landscape.
- Calls for accountability from leaders emphasize the need for transparency.
- Corruption allegations are a serious concern in Indian politics.
Chandigarh, Dec 8 (NationPress) - The wife of Punjab Congress leader Navjot Singh has been suspended from the party's primary membership following her controversial remark about the cost of becoming the Chief Minister of Punjab. Navjot Kaur Sidhu stated that it takes Rs 500 crore to secure the position of Punjab's Chief Minister.
Her suspension was enacted by Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring. The comment arose while she was expressing that her husband, Navjot Singh Sidhu, would only return to active politics if the Congress party presented him as their Chief Ministerial candidate, which has sparked significant political controversy.
After a meeting with Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Saturday, Kaur emphasized that while they advocate for Punjab, they lack the financial resources she accuses others of using to influence political positions. “We do not possess Rs 500 crore to secure a seat in the Chief Minister's office,” she remarked, adding that the individual who can provide such a sum essentially becomes the CM.
In response to Kaur's assertions, Congress leader Sukhjinder Randhawa pointed out that upon joining Congress from the BJP, she quickly ascended to ministerial roles while mentioning financial exchanges involved in her promotions. Initially, she claimed that significant funds were exchanged to become the second-in-command minister after the Chief Minister, followed by her elevation to PCC President.
State Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema also criticized both Congress and BJP leaders, demanding immediate clarification regarding serious allegations of corruption made by Kaur and fellow Congress member Sunil Jakhar. Cheema challenged both parties' high commands to break their silence within 24 hours, questioning if their inaction indicated complicity in corruption.
He highlighted the past leadership of the current Punjab BJP President, who was formerly the Punjab Congress President, during the terms of both Chief Ministers - Amarinder Singh and Charanjit Singh Channi, who allegedly benefitted from corrupt practices.
Cheema further questioned why Jakhar had remained quiet during his tenure in Congress, witnessing the sale of ministerial posts and assembly seats, only to speak after switching to the BJP. He also referenced ongoing legal issues involving Channi’s relative, from whom nearly Rs 10 crore was recovered.