Chandigarh: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday sharply criticised the Congress after Navjot Kaur Sidhu’s recent remarks sparked a political storm in Punjab. AAP General Secretary Baltej Pannu said her statements have “exposed the disturbing reality” of how the Congress allegedly determines its leadership, prioritising personal deals over the state’s welfare.
Pannu said Navjot Kaur Sidhu made two major claims after meeting the Punjab Governor: that Navjot Singh Sidhu would return to Punjab politics only if he is declared the Congress’ chief ministerial candidate, and that the Sidhus “do not have Rs 500 crore to pay”, implying that securing the CM face in the Congress involves a massive financial transaction.
Calling the allegations “shocking and unacceptable,” Pannu asked whether the Congress truly “sells” its CM face for ₹500 crore. “If Sidhu says he doesn’t have ₹500 crore, then who pays this amount? Where does the money go—state leadership, high command, or national leaders? Punjabis deserve clarity,” he said.
The AAP leader further questioned whether Sidhu’s previous positions—Punjab Congress President, MP, MLA, and Cabinet Minister—were also obtained through monetary deals. “How many crores does one need to become a minister or Deputy CM in the Congress?” Pannu asked, demanding answers from the party.
