Former OSD to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Manjit Singh Sidhu, Joins Congress

Manjit Singh Sidhu, the former Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has officially joined the Congress party. The induction took place in Chandigarh in the presence of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee leadership. This high-profile shift occurs as political parties in the state begin aligning their strategies ahead of the upcoming 2027 Punjab Legislative Assembly elections, an exercise in which the Congress aims to regain power.Sidhu, who served as a close aide to the Chief Minister, resigned from his position as OSD in November 2023, citing health reasons at the time. His entry into the Congress fold marks a significant change for a leader who was deeply involved in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) since its formative years. Addressing the media following the event, Sidhu stated that he had been associated with the AAP since the early days of its struggle and development, viewing the party as a long-term commitment that he once held in high regard.During his interaction with the press, Sidhu emphasized that his motivation for joining the Congress was rooted in a desire to prioritize the welfare of Punjab and the nation. He remarked that for him, political parties remain secondary to the needs of the state and its citizens. "Punjab comes first, then the country, and then the party," Sidhu said, adding that he maintains the same mindset he has always held toward the development of the region and the well-being of its children and future generations.The former OSD categorically denied that he had joined the party with the objective of securing a specific post or position. He asserted that he has not sought any political office from the Congress leadership, stating, "I have no post, nor have I asked for one from them, and I will never ask for one." He maintained that his previous departure from his role in the government was not linked to any failed demand for a position, but rather to circumstances he deemed necessary to walk away from.Regarding his exit from the Aam Aadmi Party, Sidhu alluded to multiple reasons behind his departure, suggesting that the factors contributing to his decision would gradually come to light. He chose not to dwell extensively on his past with the ruling party, focusing instead on his vision for the future. He stressed that his primary goal remains contributing to the state, and that his past contributions to the AAP were motivated by a dedication to its growth during its early, challenging years.The move is being closely watched by political analysts in Punjab, as the state approaches the 2027 assembly cycle. The Congress party, currently looking to consolidate its position and mount a challenge against the incumbent government, is likely to leverage the experience of leaders like Sidhu who have insight into the workings of the current administration. Whether this transition leads to a broader shift in regional political dynamics remains to be seen as the election season draws nearer.For now, Sidhu’s public comments suggest a focus on framing his transition as a commitment to public service rather than opportunistic politics. As the political landscape in Chandigarh continues to evolve, the impact of such shifts within the state’s bureaucracy and leadership circle will play a role in shaping the campaign narratives for the next legislative term.