Chandigarh, February 6
Dr. Navjot Kaur Sidhu, senior Punjab politician and former MLA, has been formally expelled from the Indian National Congress, ending months of turmoil and confrontation within the party. Punjab affairs in-charge Bhupesh Baghel confirmed that her earlier suspension has now been escalated to a complete termination of primary membership. The decision triggered an angry backlash from Dr. Sidhu, who took to X with a blistering post aimed directly at Congress leadership. In her remarks, she ridiculed Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, using the derogatory nickname “Pappu,” a term often employed by his adversaries.
Dr. Sidhu’s removal comes after a series of dramatic episodes. On January 31, she had already declared her resignation in a sharply worded statement, accusing Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring of mismanagement, opportunism and weakening the party for personal benefit. Once a BJP legislator before joining Congress, Dr. Sidhu has consistently been outspoken and combative. In her resignation note, she alleged that loyal workers were being sidelined, factionalism was being promoted and her own electoral chances deliberately sabotaged. She even asserted that her husband, Navjot Singh Sidhu, would only re-enter politics if projected as the party’s candidate for Chief Minister.
Dr. Sidhu’s troubles with the Congress leadership date back to December 2025, when she was suspended following her controversial “Rs. 500-crore briefcase” remark, which sparked outrage within party ranks. Warring’s suspension order cited indiscipline and irresponsible conduct, marking a significant setback for the Sidhu family, once considered close to the party high command and enjoying ties with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. After the suspension, Dr. Sidhu intensified her attacks, alleging corruption, ticket-selling and deliberate weakening of the party’s organizational structure.
With her expulsion now finalized, speculation surrounds her next political step. Rumors suggest she may contemplate rejoining the Bharatiya Janata Party, though no official word has been given. Her departure highlights deepening fissures within Punjab Congress and raises pressing concerns about the party’s ability to hold on to influential leaders at a time when unity is crucial for its survival.
