In a strategic move following the recent victory of Khalistani sympathizer and NSA detainee Amritpal Singh in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha elections, his close aide Bhagwant Singh, popularly known as Pardhan Mantri Bajeke, is preparing to contest impending bypolls in the Gidderbaha assembly segment.
The announcement comes on the heels of Amritpal Singh’s landslide victory from Khadoor Sahib parliamentary constituency, underscoring a shifting political landscape in Punjab. Amritpal is currently incarcerated in Assam’s Dibrugarh jail facing stringent National Security Act (NSA).
Bajeke, who is also facing charges under NSA and lodged at Dibrugarh jail since over a year now, is likely to emerge as a significant player in the region. His decision to contest from Gidderbaha, a seat left vacant after three-time MLA and Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring’s ascension to the Lok Sabha, marked a pivotal moment in the state’s political arena —considering the victory of Amritpal and another Khalistan sympathizer Sarabjit Singh Khalsa, the son of Beant Singh – one of the assassins of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Known for his active involvement in farmers’ year-long agitation at Delhi borders and his social media presence, Bajeke garnered considerable attention and support, particularly from the Sikh community.
Sharing the information, Bajeke’s son, Akashdeep Singh, took to Instagram to announce his father's decision. “My father will contest the upcoming bypolls from Gidderbaha. He aims to continue our fight for justice and equality,” he said in a video message that quickly circulated across social media platforms. The announcement has stirred anticipation among supporters and opponents alike, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral battle.
The dynamics in Gidderbaha have been shaped by recent political developments, especially with Warring vacating the assembly seat after winning the Lok Sabha elections. The transition has opened up opportunities for Bajeke to step into the electoral arena and assert their influence, especially with the backing of Amritpal Singh’s supporters.
The legal battles and public outcry surrounding Bajeke intensified after his arrest on March 18, 2023, which was streamed live on social media. His confinement in Assam has been contentious, with allegations of mistreatment and demands from his family for his transfer to Punjab on health grounds.
A resident of Dharamkot village in Moga, Bajeke has been an active participant in the farmers' protests, using social media platforms to mobilize support and share his views on socio-political issues. His popularity surged, particularly under the moniker ‘Pradhan Mantri Bajeke’, where he amassed a substantial following across various social media channels.
He is currently facing multiple charges, including attempts to incite violence and violations under the NDPS Act.
