Navjot Singh Sidhu's big statement amid discussions of joining BJP

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Navjot Singh Sidhu, the former Punjab Congress chief, has distanced himself from active politics since his release from jail in 2022. However, a recent statement from Sidhu has drawn attention, where he expressed that his time in jail had been "better" than his current political circumstances. He also remarked that many people in Punjab once aspired to become Chief Minister, but those days are now over. Sidhu emphasized, "Wherever I go now, it's always 'Sidhu sahab, Sidhu sahab.'"

This statement comes shortly after Sidhu's wife, Dr. Navjot Kaur Sidhu, and daughter, Rabia, met BJP leader Taranjit Singh Sandhu in Amritsar, sparking speculation about Sidhu’s potential return to the BJP. Adding fuel to these rumors, Sidhu shared a video on his social media, hinting at a possible comeback with the caption, "The home run... Sidhu ji is back," suggesting his return to the spotlight. He is also set to appear on comedian Kapil Sharma's show, The Great Indian Kapil Show.

In his statement, Sidhu addressed the speculation regarding his future in politics. He denied plans to join any other political party, reaffirming his dedication to the Gandhi family, particularly Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi. Sidhu further clarified that despite his differences with the BJP, particularly over their ties with the Badal family, he had always stood by his word. He claimed that Arun Jaitley had been like an elder brother to him but chose to support Punjab over his ties with the BJP. Sidhu also took a swipe at former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, saying that while he had advised Captain to serve the people of Punjab, those in power were more concerned with their personal interests, turning politics into a "profession."

Sidhu reflected on his time in jail, stating that his imprisonment had political motivations and was akin to the struggles of national heroes like Jawaharlal Nehru, Bhagat Singh, and Mahatma Gandhi. He recounted how he was initially granted bail under Section 323 but was later re-arrested when the case was reopened. He shared an emotional moment when he learned that his wife had been diagnosed with cancer during his incarceration. Sidhu expressed his relief at being released when he did, fearing the consequences had he stayed in jail any longer. Since his release, Sidhu has focused on his family, particularly caring for his wife, and has stayed away from politics. He made a return to the public eye during the IPL 2024 season, providing cricket commentary, and now appears to be considering a return to television with his upcoming appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show.