Amarinder says BJP didn't seek his views on Punjab; AAP calls him 'opportunistic'

Former Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh has expressed his frustration over not being consulted on state matters, stating that his and other experienced leaders' views were not sought. Speaking to PTI, Singh said, "I have spent 60 years in Punjab politics. I am not alone; there are other colleagues with me. We have seen the situation in Punjab over all these years, but at one point, they did not even ask us."

Singh emphasized that as people from the region, it is his duty to voice his opinions and feelings. However, he clarified that his comments should not be misconstrued as a sign of leaving the BJP or returning to the Congress. Singh mentioned that he had previously switched from the Congress to the Akali Dal over Operation Blue Star and later returned to the Congress, which does not mean he will now leave and join another party.

His remarks come amid questions about his political relevance in Punjab and his relationship with the BJP. Singh has been associated with the BJP since leaving the Congress and merging with it in 2022. Punjab Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) general secretary and media in-charge Baltej Singh Pannu criticized Singh, calling him an "opportunistic" political leader, claiming that he would be at the top of a list of such leaders if a list were made.

Pannu questioned Singh's record as chief minister and the people of Punjab's rejection of him, asking, "What did he do for Punjab? He couldn't do anything."