In a significant development for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab, Ravneet Singh Bittu, a three-term Congress MP from the state, officially joined the party on Tuesday. His decision to switch allegiance underscores the growing momentum towards reelecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for another term.
Bittu, who hails from a political lineage as the grandson of the revered former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh, known for his staunch anti-terrorism stance, expressed his support for the BJP. Beant Singh tragically fell victim to a terrorist attack during his tenure as chief minister.
Representing Ludhiana in the outgoing Lok Sabha, Bittu's entry into the BJP ranks was marked by praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, whom he credited for their genuine concern for Punjab's welfare and their ambitious plans for the state's development.
Asserting the public sentiment favoring the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Bittu emphasized the necessity of bringing Punjab on par with other progressive states, addressing the prevailing disparities. He pledged to serve as a conduit for various segments of society, including farmers, laborers, and the industrial sector.
Reflecting on Punjab's tumultuous history marred by terrorism, Bittu commended the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for their efforts in fostering peace and stability in the region.
The BJP's general secretary, Vinod Tawde, hailed Bittu's decision to join the party, foreseeing it as a significant boost to its strength and influence in Punjab.
The BJP's decision to contest the upcoming polls independently in Punjab marks a notable departure from its longstanding alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal. While attempts were made to revive the alliance, they ultimately proved futile, signaling a new phase in Punjab's political landscape.
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