Ravneet Singh Bittu, a well-known figure in the Sikh community and a vocal opponent of pro-Khalistan factions, has been appointed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's council of ministers. Bittu, aged 48, hails from Punjab and has served as a Member of Parliament for three terms. His political journey is deeply intertwined with his family's legacy; he is the grandson of the late Beant Singh, a prominent Congress leader who was tragically assassinated by militants in 1995 while serving as Punjab's Chief Minister.
During the recent Lok Sabha elections, Bittu contested from Ludhiana as the BJP candidate but was unsuccessful in securing victory. Despite this setback, his longstanding friendship with Home Minister Amit Shah was evident, with Shah publicly endorsing him at a rally in Ludhiana, promising to elevate him to a "prominent personality" if elected.
Despite his defeat, Bittu's dedication to his political cause was evident when he hurried to attend the Prime Minister's address for newly appointed ministers in Delhi, braving a traffic jam that delayed his arrival.
Bittu has a history of confronting the resurgence of the Khalistan movement, a stance that has defined much of his political career. He has previously won elections on a Congress ticket from Anandpur Sahib and Ludhiana, and has been recognized for his unwavering opposition to the release of convicted militants, including Balwant Singh Rajoana, involved in his grandfather's assassination.
In addition to his political endeavors, Bittu has been actively involved in exposing individuals linked to pro-Khalistani activities, shedding light on their connections and activities. His efforts have brought attention to the sheltering of wanted criminals in Canada, a matter he has vocally addressed both within and outside of Parliament.
Born and raised in Kotla Afghana village in Ludhiana district, Bittu's political journey is deeply rooted in his familial ties to Punjab's political landscape. Despite his affiliation with the BJP, his cousin Gurkirat Singh Kotli remains a member of the Congress, highlighting the diverse political affiliations within his family.
As the son of Swaranjit Singh, one of Beant Singh's three sons, Bittu carries forward a legacy of political engagement and commitment to his ancestral roots, despite the challenges and complexities that come with it.
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