The Congress suspended Navjot Kaur Sidhu, wife of former Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Monday. The decision came just days after her explosive claim that “the one who gives a suitcase of Rs 500 crore becomes the Chief Minister” created a massive political storm.
Although she later tried to clarify her remarks on social media, it did not satisfy the party leadership. Congress leaders felt the statement caused serious embarrassment and damaged the party’s image in Punjab.
— Amarinder Singh Raja Warring (@RajaBrar_INC) December 8, 2025
Comment Sparks Fresh Political Controversy
Navjot Kaur made the remark on December 6 after meeting Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. Her words quickly went viral and became a hot topic in state politics. As a result, both the BJP and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab seized the opportunity to attack the Congress.
While speaking about her husband’s political future, she said Navjot Singh Sidhu would only return to active politics if Congress declared him the chief ministerial candidate for 2027. She then added that they did not have “₹500 crore to buy the post."
Many people interpreted this as a direct allegation of corruption inside the Congress. The remark suggested that top positions were being “bought,” which forced the party into urgent damage control.
Rivals Target Congress
AAP leaders were quick to react. They questioned whether the alleged “₹500 crore suitcase” was meant for the Congress high command. Their statements intensified public scrutiny and kept the issue in the spotlight.
BJP leaders also joined the attack. Sunil Jakhar and Tarun Chugh described the comment as proof of “institutionalised corruption” within the Congress. At the same time, senior Congress leader Sukhjinder Randhawa criticised the Sidhus and accused them of “anti-party” behaviour.
Navjot Kaur Issues Clarification
Facing growing backlash, Navjot Kaur turned to X to explain her side. She insisted that her statement was taken out of context.
“We have never been asked for anything by the Congress," she wrote. “I only meant that we would never pay money to any other party for a CM post." She also urged people to “listen carefully" to her full statement before judging her.
However, her explanation failed to control the political damage.
Congress Deals With Another Internal Setback
The Congress is already struggling with internal problems in Punjab. Therefore, the leadership treated this incident as a self-inflicted blow ahead of the crucial 2027 Assembly elections.
By suspending Navjot Kaur Sidhu, the party sent a strong message. At the same time, the controversy showed how sensitive and fragile the political atmosphere in Punjab remains, especially as the next election cycle slowly approaches.