Political shift in Punjab: Two Congress leaders join BJP

New Delhi: In a notable political shift in Punjab, senior Congress leaders Sardar Ranjit Singh Dhillon (Rana Gandiwind) and Advocate Jagmeet Dhillon Gandiwind formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday. The induction ceremony was held in the presence of BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh.

Ranjit Singh Dhillon, Chairman of Block Samiti and Coordinator of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC), and Jagmeet Dhillon, Spokesperson of Punjab Congress and President of the Block Congress Committee, Gandiwind (Halka Tarn Taran), are known for their strong grassroots influence in the border district of Tarn Taran. Their departure marks a setback for the Congress in the region.

Welcoming the leaders, Tarun Chugh said their decision reflects growing public confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He asserted that the BJP stands for development, good governance, and national interest, and is increasingly being seen as the preferred platform by committed leaders across Punjab.

Chugh also criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, accusing it of mismanagement and policy failures. He claimed that internal strife and lack of direction within the Congress have driven many sincere leaders to seek alternatives.

Both Dhillon leaders expressed optimism about Punjab’s future under the BJP. They cited the party’s focus on national unity and inclusive development as key reasons for their switch, and voiced confidence in Modi’s leadership to usher in stability and growth.

The move is part of the BJP’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Punjab, particularly in border districts like Tarn Taran. The induction of influential local figures is expected to bolster the party’s efforts to consolidate support and expand its political footprint in the state.

(Inputs from IANS)