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He has been jailed
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(He has been jailed)
Tag: possible libel or vandalism
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{{short description|  
{{short description| Politician and retired Indian cricketer, Currently in Jail}}
Politician and Retired Indian cricketer}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2013}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2022}}
{{Infobox officeholder
{{Infobox officeholder
| name                = Navjot Singh Sidhu
| name                = Navjot Singh Sidhu
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| birth_date          = {{Birth date and age|1963|10|20|df=yes}}
| birth_date          = {{Birth date and age|1963|10|20|df=yes}}
| birth_place        = [[Patiala]], [[Punjab, India|Punjab]], India
| birth_place        = [[Patiala]], [[Punjab, India|Punjab]], India
| office             = President of [[Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee]]
| office2             = Minister of Local Government And Tourism And Cultural Affairs in [[Government of Punjab (India)|Government of Punjab]]
| term_start         = 18 July 2021
| term_start2         = 16 March 2017
| predecessor         = [[Sunil Jakhar]]
| term_end2            = 20 July 2019
| predecessor2         =
| successor2          = [[Charanjit Singh Channi]]
| office1            = [[Punjab Legislative Assembly|Member of the Punjab Legislative Assembly]]
| office1            = [[Punjab Legislative Assembly|Member of the Punjab Legislative Assembly]]
| constituency1      = [[Amritsar East (Vidhan Sabha Constituency)|Amritsar East]]
| constituency1      = [[Amritsar East (Vidhan Sabha Constituency)|Amritsar East]]
| term_start1        = 12 March 2017
| term_start1        = 12 March 2017
| term_end1          =  
| term_end1          = 10 March 2022
| predecessor1        = [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu]]
| predecessor1        = [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu]]
| successor1          =  
| successor1          = [[Jeevan Jyot Kaur]]
| office2             = [[Second Amarinder Singh ministry|Cabinet Minister]]<br/>[[Government of Punjab (India)|Government of Punjab]]
| office1             = President of [[Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee]]
| 1blankname2         = Ministry
| 2blankname1         =  
| 1namedata2         = Local Government Tourism & Cultural Affairs
| 2namedata1         =  
| governor2          = [[V. P. Singh Badnore]]
| governor1          =  
| 2blankname2         = Chief Minister
| 1blankname1         =  
| 2namedata2         = [[Amarinder Singh]]
| 1namedata1         =  
| term_start2         = 16 March 2017
| term_start1         = 18 July 2021
| term_end2           = 20 July 2019
| term_end1           = 9 April 2022
| predecessor2       =  
| predecessor1       = [[Sunil Jakhar]]
| successor2         = [[Charanjit Singh Channi]]
| successor1         = [[Amrinder Singh Raja Warring]]
| office3            = [[Rajya Sabha|Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha)]]
| office3            = [[Rajya Sabha|Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha]]
| term_start3        = 25 April 2016
| term_start3        = 25 April 2016
| term_end3          = 18 July 2016
| term_end3          = 18 July 2016
| successor3          = [[Roopa Ganguly]]
| successor3          = [[Roopa Ganguly]]
| predecessor3        = [[Ashok Sekhar Ganguly]]
| predecessor3        = [[Ashok Sekhar Ganguly]]
| office4            = [[Lok Sabha|Member of Parliament]]
| office4            = [[Lok Sabha|Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha]]
| constituency4      = [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]]
| constituency4      = [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]]
| term_start4        = 2004
| term_start4        = 2004
Line 43: Line 44:
| otherparty          = [[Bharatiya Janata Party]]<br/>{{small|(2004–2016)}}
| otherparty          = [[Bharatiya Janata Party]]<br/>{{small|(2004–2016)}}
| spouse              = [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu]]
| spouse              = [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu]]
| children            = Karan Sidhu (Son) <br>
Rabia Sidhu (Daughter)
| module              = {{Infobox cricketer
| module              = {{Infobox cricketer
| embed = yes
| embed = yes
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| role = [[Batsman]]
| role = [[Batsman]]
| batting = Right-handed
| batting = Right-handed
| bowling = Right-arm [[Seam bowling|medium]]
| bowling = Right-arm medium
| international = true
| international = true
| testdebutdate = 12 November
| testdebutdate = 12 November
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| 100s/50s1 = 9/15
| 100s/50s1 = 9/15
| top score1 = 201
| top score1 = 201
| deliveries1 = 6
| hidedeliveries = true
| wickets1 = 0
| bowl avg1 = –
| fivefor1 = –
| tenfor1 = –
| best bowling1 = –
| catches/stumpings1 = 9/–
| catches/stumpings1 = 9/–
| column2 = [[One Day International|ODI]]
| column2 = [[One Day International|ODI]]
Line 90: Line 84:
| 100s/50s2 = 6/33
| 100s/50s2 = 6/33
| top score2 = 134[[not out|*]]
| top score2 = 134[[not out|*]]
| deliveries2 = 4
| wickets2 = –
| bowl avg2 = –
| fivefor2 = –
| tenfor2 = –
| best bowling2 = –
| catches/stumpings2 = 20/–
| catches/stumpings2 = 20/–
| column3 = [[First-class cricket|FC]]
| column3 = [[First-class cricket|FC]]
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| 100s/50s3 = 27/50
| 100s/50s3 = 27/50
| top score3 = 286
| top score3 = 286
| deliveries3 = 106
| wickets3 = –
| bowl avg3 = –
| fivefor3 = –
| tenfor3 = –
| best bowling3 = –
| catches/stumpings3 = 50/–
| catches/stumpings3 = 50/–
| column4 = [[List A cricket|LA]]
| column4 = [[List A cricket|LA]]
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| 100s/50s4 = 10/55
| 100s/50s4 = 10/55
| top score4 = 139
| top score4 = 139
| deliveries4 = 10
| wickets4 = –
| bowl avg4 = –
| fivefor4 = –
| tenfor4 = –
| best bowling4 = –
| catches/stumpings4 = 31/–
| catches/stumpings4 = 31/–
| date=  1 January
| date=  1 January
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| residence          = Holy City,  Amritsar
| residence          = Holy City,  Amritsar
| occupation          = Politician, [[cricketer]], media personality
| occupation          = Politician, [[cricketer]], media personality
| education          = H. R. College of Commerce and Economics<br> Mohindra College<br> Panjab University
| education          = H. R. College of Commerce and Economics<br/> Mohindra College<br/> Panjab University
| native_name        =  
| native_name        =  
| Jail Term          = 1 year by Supreme Court of India
}}
}}
'''Navjot Singh Sidhu''' (born 20 October 1963) is an [[Indian National Congress]] politician, television personality and retired international [[cricketer]]. He is President of [[Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee]]. Formerly, he was the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in the state government of [[States and union territories of India|State]] of [[Punjab, India|Punjab]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Punjab: Navjot Singh Sidhu to take charge of Local Government, Tourism & Cultural Affairs Ministry|url=http://indianexpress.com/elections/punjab-assembly-elections-2017/punjab-navjot-singh-siddu-to-take-charge-of-local-government-tourism-cultural-affairs-ministry-4571855/|website=The Indian Express|access-date=18 March 2017|date=16 March 2017}}</ref><ref name="Hindu14Jul2019"/><ref name="ET14Jul2019"/>
'''Navjot Singh Sidhu''' (born 20 October 1963) is an [[Indian National Congress]] politician, television personality and retired international [[cricketer]]. He is the former President of [[Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee]]. Formerly, he was the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in the state government of [[States and union territories of India|State]] of [[Punjab, India|Punjab]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Punjab: Navjot Singh Sidhu to take charge of Local Government, Tourism & Cultural Affairs Ministry|url=http://indianexpress.com/elections/punjab-assembly-elections-2017/punjab-navjot-singh-siddu-to-take-charge-of-local-government-tourism-cultural-affairs-ministry-4571855/|website=The Indian Express|access-date=18 March 2017|date=16 March 2017}}</ref><ref name="Hindu14Jul2019"/><ref name="ET14Jul2019"/> The [[Supreme Court of India|Supreme Court]] gave him a prison sentence of 1 year in May 2022 in a road rage case.<ref name=":1" />


As a professional cricketer, Sidhu had a career spanning over 19 years after his [[First-class cricket|first-class]] debut in 1981–82. After losing his place in the [[India national cricket team|national team]] following his international debut in 1983–84, he returned to score four half-centuries in the [[1987 Cricket World Cup|1987 World Cup]]. Playing mostly as a [[Batting order (cricket)|top-order batter]], Sidhu went on to play in 51 [[Test cricket|Tests]] and 136 [[One Day Internationals|One-Day-Internationals]] for his country. He came to be known for his six-hitting ability and earned the sobriquet "Sixer Sidhu".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Vasu|first1=Anand|title=Navjot Sidhu: From 'Sid who?' to 'Sixer Sidhu!'|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/78755.html|work=ESPNcricinfo|access-date=11 March 2017|date=3 December 1999}}</ref> After retirement, he turned to commentary and television, most notably as a judge of comedy shows, and as a permanent guest in ''[[Comedy Nights with Kapil]]'' (2013–2015) and later ''[[The Kapil Sharma Show]]'' (2016–2019). He was a contestant in the reality television show ''[[Bigg Boss (Hindi season 6)|Bigg Boss]]'' (2012) and was seen in the show ''[[Kyaa Hoga Nimmo Kaa]]''.
As a professional cricketer, Sidhu had a career spanning over 19 years after his [[First-class cricket|first-class]] debut in 1981–82. After losing his place in the [[India national cricket team|national team]] following his international debut in 1983–84, he returned to score four half-centuries in the [[1987 Cricket World Cup|1987 World Cup]]. Playing mostly as a [[Batting order (cricket)|top-order batter]], Sidhu went on to play in 51 [[Test cricket|Tests]] and 136 [[One Day Internationals|One-Day-Internationals]] for his country. He came to be known for his six-hitting ability and earned the sobriquet "Sixer Sidhu".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Vasu|first1=Anand|title=Navjot Sidhu: From 'Sid who?' to 'Sixer Sidhu!'|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/78755.html|work=ESPNcricinfo|access-date=11 March 2017|date=3 December 1999}}</ref> After retirement, he turned to commentary and television, most notably as a judge of comedy shows, and as a permanent guest in ''[[Comedy Nights with Kapil]]'' (2013–2015) and later ''[[The Kapil Sharma Show]]'' (2016–2019). He was a contestant in the reality television show ''[[Bigg Boss (Hindi season 6)|Bigg Boss]]'' (2012) and was seen in the show ''[[Kyaa Hoga Nimmo Kaa]]''.


Sidhu joined the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] in 2004 and contested the [[2004 Indian general election|general election]] from [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]] that year. He won the election and held the seat till 2014 winning also the [[2009 Indian general election|next election]]. He was nominated to the [[Rajya Sabha]] in 2016 from Punjab before he resigned from the position the same year and quitting the party. In 2017, he joined the [[Indian National Congress]] and was elected to the [[Punjab Legislative Assembly]] from [[Amritsar East (Vidhan Sabha Constituency)|Amritsar East]].
Sidhu joined the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] in 2004 and contested the [[2004 Indian general election|general election]] from [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]] that year. He won the election and held the seat till 2014 winning also the [[2009 Indian general election|next election]]. He was nominated to the [[Rajya Sabha]] in 2016 from Punjab before he resigned from the position the same year and quitting the party. In 2017, he joined the [[Indian National Congress]] and was elected to the [[Punjab Legislative Assembly]] from [[Amritsar East (Vidhan Sabha Constituency)|Amritsar East]]. He lost in [[2022 Punjab Legislative Assembly election]] from [[Amritsar East Assembly Constituency]].<ref name="Mint2022"/>


==Early life and biography==
==Early life and biography==
Sidhu was born in [[Patiala]], [[Punjab, India]].<ref>{{cite news |title=The other side of Navjot Singh Sidhu: Reading, pets and shopping are his passion |url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/interview/the-other-side-of-navjot-singh-sidhu-reading-pets-and-shopping-are-his-passion |access-date=22 June 2019 |newspaper=[[National Herald]] |date=18 May 2019 |language=en}}</ref> His father, Sardar Bhagwant Singh was a decent cricket player and wanted to see his son Navjot as a top-class cricketer. Sidhu is an alumnus of Yadavindra Public School, Patiala. He studied in Mumbai at [[H.R. College of Commerce and Economics|HR College of Commerce and Economics]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.hrcollege.edu/Web/Index.aspx|title=Welcome To H.R. College...|website=www.hrcollege.edu|access-date=16 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616154955/http://www.hrcollege.edu/Web/Index.aspx|archive-date=16 June 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> Sidhu was elected to the [[Lok Sabha]] as a member from [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]] in 2004 on a [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] ticket; he later resigned, following his conviction in 2006.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/convicted-sidhus-resignation-accepted/articleshow/708765.cms?from=mdr|title=Convicted Sidhu's Resignation Accepted|last=PTI|date=4 December 2006|work=The Economics Times|access-date=9 February 2020}}</ref> After the Supreme Court stayed his conviction, he successfully contested the [[Amritsar]] [[Lok Sabha]] seat, defeating his Congress rival, State Finance Minister Surinder Singla, by 77,626 votes. He is also the present president of [[World Jat Aryan Foundation]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Navjot Sidhu calls for Jat unity |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070924/himachal.htm#5 |author=Tribune News Service |newspaper=[[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]] |place=Dharamsala |date=23 September 2007 |access-date=26 February 2013}}</ref> He is a vegetarian.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1070311/asp/7days/story_7500936.asp |title=The Telegraph – Calcutta : Look |publisher=Telegraphindia.com |date=11 March 2007 |access-date=23 July 2012 |location=Calcutta, India}}</ref>
Sidhu was born in [[Patiala]], [[Punjab, India]].<ref>{{cite news |title=The other side of Navjot Singh Sidhu: Reading, pets and shopping are his passion |url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/interview/the-other-side-of-navjot-singh-sidhu-reading-pets-and-shopping-are-his-passion |access-date=22 June 2019 |newspaper=[[National Herald]] |date=18 May 2019 |language=en}}</ref> His father, Sardar Bhagwant Singh was a decent cricket player and wanted to see his son Navjot as a top-class cricketer. Sidhu is an alumnus of Yadavindra Public School, Patiala. He studied in Mumbai at [[H.R. College of Commerce and Economics|HR College of Commerce and Economics]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.hrcollege.edu/Web/Index.aspx|title=Welcome To H.R. College...|website=www.hrcollege.edu|access-date=16 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616154955/http://www.hrcollege.edu/Web/Index.aspx|archive-date=16 June 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> Sidhu was elected to the [[Lok Sabha]] as a member from [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]] in 2004 on a [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] ticket; he later resigned, following his conviction in 2006.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/convicted-sidhus-resignation-accepted/articleshow/708765.cms?from=mdr|title=Convicted Sidhu's Resignation Accepted|last=PTI|date=4 December 2006|work=The Economics Times|access-date=9 February 2020}}</ref> After the Supreme Court stayed his conviction, he successfully contested the [[Amritsar]] [[Lok Sabha]] seat, defeating his Congress rival, State Finance Minister Surinder Singla, by 77,626 votes. He is also the present president of [[World Jat Aryan Foundation]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Navjot Sidhu calls for Jat unity |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070924/himachal.htm#5 |author=Tribune News Service |newspaper=[[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]] |place=Dharamsala |date=23 September 2007 |access-date=26 February 2013}}</ref> He is a vegetarian.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1070311/asp/7days/story_7500936.asp |title=The Telegraph – Calcutta : Look |publisher=Telegraphindia.com |date=11 March 2007 |access-date=23 July 2012 |location=Calcutta, India}}</ref>


He is married to [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu]], a doctor and a former member of [[Punjab Legislative Assembly]]. The couple has two children: daughter Rabia and son Karan.
He is married to [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu]], a doctor and a former member of [[Punjab Legislative Assembly]].
 
==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Navjot Sidhu has two children. His son [[Karan Singh Sidhu]] is a lawyer. His son practiced law in Delhi. <ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-05-26|title=Backfoot drive: Son, wife not to take up Punjab govt posts, says Navjot Singh Sidhu|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/punjab/my-son-wife-have-refused-punjab-govt-posts-am-feeling-light-as-a-feather-navjot-singh-sidhu/story-LSkxcr9ViDYkYUuIgtScCM.html|access-date=2021-10-03|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>He did his LLB from Amity university and received master's degree in law from [[Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law|Benjamin N Cardozo school of law]] of New York. Sidhu's daughter Rabia Sidhu studied interior designing from London.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-05-26|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu says son a legal officer by merit alone|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/navjot-singh-sidhu-says-son-a-legal-officer-by-merit-alone-5191385/|access-date=2021-10-03|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref>  Pakistani prime minister [[Imran Khan]] is one of his good friends.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/navjot-sidhu-thanks-yaar-dildaar-imran-khan-for-opening-the-kartarpur-corridor/story-SqrixuFHl3s6lHxq7UsTVK_amp.html&ved=2ahUKEwi6zuWSmK7zAhVKwTgGHT7PBDcQtwJ6BAhHEAE&usg=AOvVaw1szV__xhRPH99qHjwYDfbf&ampcf=1|title=Navjot Sidhu thanks 'yaar dildaar' Imran Khan for opening the Kartarpur Corridor|date=9 November 2019}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pakistan-invites-navjot-singh-sidhu-for-kartarpur-corridor-opening-ceremony-on-november-9/story-mq1hpBlB3CCKNc4wjfhbTP_amp.html&ved=2ahUKEwi6zuWSmK7zAhVKwTgGHT7PBDcQFnoECCkQAQ&usg=AOvVaw16qe6UEJMON2fBn1scLQE2&ampcf=1|title = Imran Khan sends Navjot Sidhu special invite for Kartarpur corridor opening|date = 30 October 2019}}</ref> Sidhu has flamboyant and outspoken personality. He laughs loudly. He always wears colorful turban.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-58731162|title = Navjot Singh Sidhu: India's controversial cricketer-turned-politician|work = BBC News|date = October 2021}}</ref> His wife [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu|Navjot Kaur]] is a politician.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Navjot Kaur Sidhu, Wife Of Navjot Sidhu, Quits BJP|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navjot-kaur-sidhu-wife-of-navjot-sidhu-quits-bjp-1471845|access-date=2021-10-03|website=NDTV.com}}</ref> Many times opposition politicians have criticised Sidhu for nepotism .<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-05-26|title=Backfoot drive: Son, wife not to take up Punjab govt posts, says Navjot Singh Sidhu|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/punjab/my-son-wife-have-refused-punjab-govt-posts-am-feeling-light-as-a-feather-navjot-singh-sidhu/story-LSkxcr9ViDYkYUuIgtScCM.html|access-date=2021-10-03|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/may/26/navjot-singh-sidhu-under-attack-for-nepotism-now-says-his-family-members-will-not-join-their-posts-1819794.amp&ved=2ahUKEwi56vvAuq7zAhU-gtgFHdDODb0QFnoECAUQAQ&usg=AOvVaw0kd1LIf9iBBNunN1PSHdAs&ampcf=1|url-status=live|access-date=2021-10-03|website=Indian express}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Sidhu seeks ticket for wife,high command fears nepotism|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/sidhu-seeks-ticket-for-wife-high-command-fears-nepotism/lite/&ved=2ahUKEwi56vvAuq7zAhU-gtgFHdDODb0QFnoECAgQAQ&usg=AOvVaw2y38GSJTvOSK5rEp-UHzOY&ampcf=1|url-status=live|access-date=2021-10-03|website=www.indianexpress.com|date = 29 December 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/amid-controversy-over-promoting-nepotism-punjab-govt-defends-appointment-of-ministers-son-in-law-312561&ved=2ahUKEwi56vvAuq7zAhU-gtgFHdDODb0QFnoECBwQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1NTXag8-FR3WL3_HSPavH_&ampcf=1|url-status=live|access-date=2021-10-03|website=The Tribune}}</ref> Fellow players from his cricketing career call him by his pet name Sherry.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-01-10|title=The importance of being Navjot Sidhu, his father's son!|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/the-importance-of-being-navjot-sidhu-his-father-s-son/story-X4wgjhbJZLXBpJGSKMiMPI.html|access-date=2021-10-03|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/navjot-sidhu-thanks-yaar-dildaar-imran-khan-for-opening-the-kartarpur-corridor/story-SqrixuFHl3s6lHxq7UsTVK_amp.html&ved=2ahUKEwi6zuWSmK7zAhVKwTgGHT7PBDcQtwJ6BAhHEAE&usg=AOvVaw1szV__xhRPH99qHjwYDfbf&ampcf=1|title=Navjot Sidhu thanks 'yaar dildaar' Imran Khan for opening the Kartarpur Corridor|date=9 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pakistan-invites-navjot-singh-sidhu-for-kartarpur-corridor-opening-ceremony-on-november-9/story-mq1hpBlB3CCKNc4wjfhbTP_amp.html&ved=2ahUKEwi6zuWSmK7zAhVKwTgGHT7PBDcQFnoECCkQAQ&usg=AOvVaw16qe6UEJMON2fBn1scLQE2&ampcf=1|title = Imran Khan sends Navjot Sidhu special invite for Kartarpur corridor opening|date = 30 October 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-58731162|title = Navjot Singh Sidhu: India's controversial cricketer-turned-politician|work = BBC News|date = October 2021}}</ref> His wife [[Navjot Kaur Sidhu|Navjot Kaur]] is a politician.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Navjot Kaur Sidhu, Wife Of Navjot Sidhu, Quits BJP|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navjot-kaur-sidhu-wife-of-navjot-sidhu-quits-bjp-1471845|access-date=3 October 2021|website=NDTV.com}}</ref> Many times opposition politicians have criticised Sidhu for nepotism .<ref name="hindustantimes.com">{{Cite web|date=26 May 2018|title=Backfoot drive: Son, wife not to take up Punjab govt posts, says Navjot Singh Sidhu|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/punjab/my-son-wife-have-refused-punjab-govt-posts-am-feeling-light-as-a-feather-navjot-singh-sidhu/story-LSkxcr9ViDYkYUuIgtScCM.html|access-date=3 October 2021|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu under attack for nepotism now says his family members will not join their posts |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/may/26/navjot-singh-sidhu-under-attack-for-nepotism-now-says-his-family-members-will-not-join-their-posts-1819794.html |access-date=13 March 2022 |work=The New Indian Express |date=26 May 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Agnihotri Chaba |first1=Anju |title=Sidhu seeks ticket for wife,high command fears nepotism |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/sidhu-seeks-ticket-for-wife-high-command-fears-nepotism/ |access-date=13 March 2022 |work=The Indian Express |date=29 December 2011 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Amid controversy over promoting nepotism, Punjab govt defends appointment of minister's son-in-law |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/amid-controversy-over-promoting-nepotism-punjab-govt-defends-appointment-of-ministers-son-in-law-312561 |access-date=13 March 2022 |work=Tribune |date=18 September 2021 |language=en}}</ref> Fellow players from his cricketing career call him by his pet name Sherry.<ref>{{Cite web|date=10 January 2017|title=The importance of being Navjot Sidhu, his father's son!|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/the-importance-of-being-navjot-sidhu-his-father-s-son/story-X4wgjhbJZLXBpJGSKMiMPI.html|access-date=3 October 2021|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>


==Cricket career==
==Cricket career==
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Touring [[Indian cricket team in Pakistan in 1989–90|Pakistan in 1989–90]], Sidhu averaged 38.42 in four Tests,<ref>{{cite web |title=Records, India in Pakistan Test Series, 1989/90 , Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=301;type=series |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=7 August 2018}}</ref> with his best performance coming in the Fourth test in [[Sialkot]]. He rescued India in their second innings when down 38/4 putting together a century [[Partnership (cricket)|stand]] with [[Sachin Tendulkar]] while making 97. He was named man of the match.<ref>{{cite web |title=Fourth Test Match, Pakistan v India 1989-90 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152037.html |work=Wisden |publisher=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=7 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101227103325/http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152037.html |archive-date=27 December 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> Sidhu injured his wrist in the First Test of [[Indian cricket team in New Zealand in 1989–90|India's tour of New Zealand]] later that season, while facing an aggressive spell of [[fast bowling]] by [[Danny Morrison (cricketer)|Danny Morrison]], ruling him out of the series.<ref>{{cite web |title=First Test, India v New Zealand 1989-90 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152041.html |work=Wisden |publisher=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=7 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131123003914/http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152041.html |archive-date=23 November 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> He had a poor [[Indian cricket team in England in 1990|tour of England]] and [[Indian cricket team in Australia in 1991–92|Australia]] averaging 11.20 and 20.40, totalling 56 and 102 runs respectively, both three-Test series.<ref name="howstat1">{{cite web |title=Navjot Sidhu - Performance Analysis by Series |url=http://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Players/PlayerSeries.asp?PlayerID=1591#bat |website=howstat.com |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809073527/http://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Players/PlayerSeries.asp?PlayerID=1591 |archive-date=9 August 2018}}</ref> After poor performances at the domestic level, he was omitted from the 16-member side that was selected to [[Indian cricket team in South Africa in 1992–93|tour South Africa]] starting October 1992. [[Ajay Jadeja]] replaced him in the squad.<ref>{{cite news |title=Raman, Chetan, Kumble recalled |work=The Indian Express |date=2 October 1992 |page=16}}</ref>
Touring [[Indian cricket team in Pakistan in 1989–90|Pakistan in 1989–90]], Sidhu averaged 38.42 in four Tests,<ref>{{cite web |title=Records, India in Pakistan Test Series, 1989/90 , Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=301;type=series |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=7 August 2018}}</ref> with his best performance coming in the Fourth test in [[Sialkot]]. He rescued India in their second innings when down 38/4 putting together a century [[Partnership (cricket)|stand]] with [[Sachin Tendulkar]] while making 97. He was named man of the match.<ref>{{cite web |title=Fourth Test Match, Pakistan v India 1989-90 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152037.html |work=Wisden |publisher=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=7 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101227103325/http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152037.html |archive-date=27 December 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> Sidhu injured his wrist in the First Test of [[Indian cricket team in New Zealand in 1989–90|India's tour of New Zealand]] later that season, while facing an aggressive spell of [[fast bowling]] by [[Danny Morrison (cricketer)|Danny Morrison]], ruling him out of the series.<ref>{{cite web |title=First Test, India v New Zealand 1989-90 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152041.html |work=Wisden |publisher=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=7 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131123003914/http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/152041.html |archive-date=23 November 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> He had a poor [[Indian cricket team in England in 1990|tour of England]] and [[Indian cricket team in Australia in 1991–92|Australia]] averaging 11.20 and 20.40, totalling 56 and 102 runs respectively, both three-Test series.<ref name="howstat1">{{cite web |title=Navjot Sidhu - Performance Analysis by Series |url=http://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Players/PlayerSeries.asp?PlayerID=1591#bat |website=howstat.com |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809073527/http://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Players/PlayerSeries.asp?PlayerID=1591 |archive-date=9 August 2018}}</ref> After poor performances at the domestic level, he was omitted from the 16-member side that was selected to [[Indian cricket team in South Africa in 1992–93|tour South Africa]] starting October 1992. [[Ajay Jadeja]] replaced him in the squad.<ref>{{cite news |title=Raman, Chetan, Kumble recalled |work=The Indian Express |date=2 October 1992 |page=16}}</ref>


Sidhu was recalled when [[English cricket team in India in 1992–93|England toured India]] later that season. He made his third Test hundred in the Second Test in [[Madras]], scoring 106 off 273 balls while opening the innings. He struck a partnership with Tendulkar who made 165 taking their team to 560 before [[Declaration and forfeiture#Declaration|declaration]]. India went on to win the match and the series.<ref>{{cite web |title=Second Test, India v England 1992-93 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/153611.html |publisher=ESPNcricinfo |work=Wisden |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111130053348/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/153611.html |archive-date=30 November 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> Sidhu particularly attacked spinner [[John Emburey]] in his innings that included nine fours.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Smyth |first1=Rob |last2=Bagchi |first2=Rob |title=India v England - as it happened |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2012/dec/17/india-england-fouth-test-day-five |website=The Guardian |access-date=9 August 2018 |language=en |date=17 December 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=2nd Test, England tour of India at Chennai, Feb 11-15 1993 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/series/16457/scorecard/63599 |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=9 August 2018 |language=en}}</ref> He aggregated 235 in the series at 58.75.<ref>{{cite web |title=Records, England in India Test Series 1992/93, Most Runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=330;type=series |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=9 August 2018}}</ref> Sidhu was India's best performer in the ODI series that followed, scoring 287 runs at 57.40. He played two match-winning knocks: a 76 in [[Sector 16 Stadium|Chandigarh]] followed by an unbeaten 134 in [[Captain Roop Singh Stadium|Gwalior]]. He received man of the match awards for both performances.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sidhu, Azhar haul India to victory |work=The Indian Express |date=5 March 1993 |page=16}}</ref> The latter innings followed after India were down having lost two wickets with 4 runs on the board. Sidhu put together a 175-run stand with [[Mohammad Azharuddin]] for the third wicket.<ref>{{cite news |title=Fifth One-day International, India v England 1992-93 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/150949.html |access-date=9 August 2018 |work=ESPNcricinfo |agency=Wisden}}</ref> En route to his century, Sidhu passed 2,000 runs in ODIs.<ref>{{cite web |title=India v England, Charms Cup 1992/93 (6th ODI) |url=https://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/57/57044.html |website=CricketArchive |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151008232629/http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/57/57044.html |archive-date=8 October 2015}}</ref> After India's series-leveling victory in the final game, Sidhu was given the man of the series award.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sixth One-day International, India v England 1992-93 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/150950.html |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110127181649/http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/150950.html |archive-date=27 January 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Sidhu was recalled when [[English cricket team in India in 1992–93|England toured India]] later that season. He made his third Test hundred in the Second Test in [[Madras]], scoring 106 off 273 balls while opening the innings. He struck a partnership with Tendulkar who made 165 taking their team to 560 before [[Declaration and forfeiture#Declaration|declaration]]. India went on to win the match and the series.<ref>{{cite web |title=Second Test, India v England 1992-93 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/153611.html |publisher=ESPNcricinfo |work=Wisden |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111130053348/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/153611.html |archive-date=30 November 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> Sidhu particularly attacked spinner [[John Emburey]] in his innings that included nine fours.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Smyth |first1=Rob |last2=Bagchi |first2=Rob |title=India v England - as it happened |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2012/dec/17/india-england-fouth-test-day-five |website=The Guardian |access-date=9 August 2018 |language=en |date=17 December 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=2nd Test, England tour of India at Chennai, Feb 11-15 1993 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/series/16457/scorecard/63599 |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=9 August 2018 |language=en}}</ref> He aggregated 235 in the series at 58.75.<ref>{{cite web |title=Records, England in India Test Series 1992/93, Most Runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=330;type=series |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=9 August 2018}}</ref> Sidhu was India's best performer in the ODI series that followed, scoring 287 runs at 57.40. He played two match-winning knocks: a 76 in [[Sector 16 Stadium|Chandigarh]] followed by an unbeaten 134 in [[Captain Roop Singh Stadium|Gwalior]]. He received man of the match awards for both performances.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sidhu, Azhar haul India to victory |work=The Indian Express |date=5 March 1993 |page=16}}</ref> The latter innings followed after India were down having lost two wickets with 4 runs on the board. Sidhu put together a 175-run stand with [[Mohammad Azharuddin]] for the third wicket.<ref>{{cite news |title=Fifth One-day International, India v England 1992-93 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/150949.html |access-date=9 August 2018 |work=ESPNcricinfo |agency=Wisden}}</ref> En route to his century, Sidhu passed 2,000 runs in ODIs.<ref>{{cite web |title=India v England, Charms Cup 1992/93 (6th ODI) |url=https://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/57/57044.html |website=CricketArchive |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151008232629/http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/57/57044.html |archive-date=8 October 2015}}</ref> After India's series-leveling victory in the final game, Sidhu was given the man of the series award.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sixth One-day International, India v England 1992-93 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/150950.html |newspaper=Cricinfo |access-date=9 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110127181649/http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/150950.html |archive-date=27 January 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref>


His first ODI century came against [[Pakistan cricket team|Pakistan]] in [[Sharjah]] in 1989 while his 134 against [[England cricket team|England]] at [[Gwalior]] in 1993 was his highest ODI score and the innings which he called his best when he retired in 1999.<ref name="cricinfo">{{cite news |title='Sherry' calls it a day |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/78743.html |access-date=6 August 2018 |work=ESPNcricinfo |date=2 December 1999 |language=en}}</ref> Sidhu told in an interview that an article criticising his dismal performance changed his cricketing life.<ref>{{cite news |last1=DelhiOctober 20 |first1=India Today Web Desk New |last2=October 20 |first2=India Today Web Desk New |last3=Ist |first3=India Today Web Desk New |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu turns 55: A look at his journey from a cricketer to politician |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/gk-current-affairs/story/navjot-singh-sidhu-268950-2015-10-20 |access-date=26 January 2019 |work=India Today |language=en}}</ref>
His first ODI century came against [[Pakistan cricket team|Pakistan]] in [[Sharjah]] in 1989 while his 134 against [[England cricket team|England]] at [[Gwalior]] in 1993 was his highest ODI score and the innings which he called his best when he retired in 1999.<ref name="cricinfo">{{cite news |title='Sherry' calls it a day |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/78743.html |access-date=6 August 2018 |work=ESPNcricinfo |date=2 December 1999 |language=en}}</ref> Sidhu told in an interview that an article criticising his dismal performance changed his cricketing life.<ref>{{cite news |last1=DelhiOctober 20 |first1=India Today Web Desk New |last2=October 20 |first2=India Today Web Desk New |last3=Ist |first3=India Today Web Desk New |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu turns 55: A look at his journey from a cricketer to politician |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/gk-current-affairs/story/navjot-singh-sidhu-268950-2015-10-20 |access-date=26 January 2019 |work=India Today |language=en}}</ref>
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After his improved performance in 1987 World Cup, the same columnist wrote an article titled "Sidhu: From Strokeless Wonder To A Palm-Grove Hitter", applauding his performance.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bhatia |first1=Ramaninder K. |title=I was so shy I dreaded facing the media after hitting a ton |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/interviews/I-was-so-shy-I-dreaded-facing-the-media-after-hitting-a-ton/articleshow/7203594.cms |website=The Times of India |access-date=6 August 2018 |date=2 January 2011}}</ref>
After his improved performance in 1987 World Cup, the same columnist wrote an article titled "Sidhu: From Strokeless Wonder To A Palm-Grove Hitter", applauding his performance.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bhatia |first1=Ramaninder K. |title=I was so shy I dreaded facing the media after hitting a ton |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/interviews/I-was-so-shy-I-dreaded-facing-the-media-after-hitting-a-ton/articleshow/7203594.cms |website=The Times of India |access-date=6 August 2018 |date=2 January 2011}}</ref>


Sidhu scored over 500 Test runs in a year thrice (1993, 1994 and 1997). His only Test double century came during India's 1997 tour of West Indies. In 1994, he scored 884 ODI runs. Sidhu was the first Indian batsman to score more than 5 centuries in one day international.<ref>{{cite news |title=Farewell 2018: That Was The Year That Was {{!}} Indiablooms - First Portal on Digital News Management |url=https://www.indiablooms.com/news-details/N/45156/farewell-2018-that-was-the-year-that-was.html |access-date=26 January 2019 |work=Indiablooms.com}}</ref>
Sidhu scored over 500 Test runs in a year thrice (1993, 1994 and 1997). His only Test double century came during [[Indian cricket team in the West Indies in 1996–97|India's 1997 tour of the West Indies]]. In 1994, he scored 884 ODI runs. Sidhu was the first Indian batsman to score more than 5 centuries in one day internationals.<ref>{{cite news |title=Farewell 2018: That Was The Year That Was {{!}} Indiablooms - First Portal on Digital News Management |url=https://www.indiablooms.com/news-details/N/45156/farewell-2018-that-was-the-year-that-was.html |access-date=26 January 2019 |work=Indiablooms.com}}</ref>
[[File: Navjot Singh Sidhu on the sets of Sony Max in 2012.jpg|thumb|Navjot Singh Sidhu on the sets of Sony Max.]]
[[File: Navjot Singh Sidhu on the sets of Sony Max in 2012.jpg|thumb|Navjot Singh Sidhu on the sets of Sony Max.]]


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== Politics ==
== Political career ==
===Bharatiya Janata Party===
Sidhu won on a [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] ticket from the [[Amritsar]] seat in the [[2004 Indian general elections]]. After resigning due to a court case against him, he stood again after the ruling stayed. He won a by-election with a good majority. In the 2009 general elections defeating Om Prakash Soni of INC by 6858 votes.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.electionplans.com/election/state/india/constituency/2389/200904/ |title=General Elections Results : Apr 2009 : Amritsar Parliamentary |publisher=electionplans.com |access-date=23 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023054108/http://www.electionplans.com/election/state/india/constituency/2389/200904 |archive-date=23 October 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> This was what Sidhu had to say after not being nominated as party's from [[Amritsar]] in the [[2014 Indian general election]].
Sidhu won on a [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] ticket from the [[Amritsar]] seat in the [[2004 Indian general elections]]. After resigning due to a court case against him, he stood again after the ruling stayed. He won a by-election with a good majority. In the 2009 general elections defeating Om Prakash Soni of INC by 6858 votes.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.electionplans.com/election/state/india/constituency/2389/200904/ |title=General Elections Results : Apr 2009 : Amritsar Parliamentary |publisher=electionplans.com |access-date=23 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023054108/http://www.electionplans.com/election/state/india/constituency/2389/200904 |archive-date=23 October 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> This was what Sidhu had to say after not being nominated as party's from [[Amritsar]] in the [[2014 Indian general election]].


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Reiterating that he has no opposition to the decision as he considered himself as [[Arun Jaitley]]'s protege. However, he was firm on his stand of not contesting from any constituency while accepting the decision, wholeheartedly, announced by the party.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cricketcountry.com/news/navjot-singh-sidhu-firm-on-contesting-lok-sabha-elections-from-amritsar-111506|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu firm on contesting Lok Sabha elections from Amritsar|first=Asian News|last=International|date=15 March 2014|website=Cricket Country|access-date=3 January 2020}}</ref>
Reiterating that he has no opposition to the decision as he considered himself as [[Arun Jaitley]]'s protege. However, he was firm on his stand of not contesting from any constituency while accepting the decision, wholeheartedly, announced by the party.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cricketcountry.com/news/navjot-singh-sidhu-firm-on-contesting-lok-sabha-elections-from-amritsar-111506|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu firm on contesting Lok Sabha elections from Amritsar|first=Asian News|last=International|date=15 March 2014|website=Cricket Country|access-date=3 January 2020}}</ref>
 
===Rajya Sabha MP===
Navjot Singh Sidhu took the oath as a member of the [[Rajya Sabha]] on 28 April 2016. As per reports, Sidhu was given the [[Rajya Sabha]] nomination in a bid to prevent him from joining the [[Aam Aadmi Party]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/navjot-singh-sidhu-takes-oath-as-rajya-sabha-member-see-pics_1880389.html|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu takes oath as Rajya Sabha member – SEE PICS|date=28 April 2016|access-date=10 September 2016}}</ref> However he resigned from the [[Rajya Sabha]] on 18 July 2016.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-from-rajya-sabha-amid-aap-buzz/story-oWCoRBXdYAv9BSRg2Jb6JP.html |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu stumps BJP, quits Rajya Sabha amid AAP buzz |publisher=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=18 July 2016 |access-date=18 June 2016}}</ref>
Navjot Singh Sidhu took the oath as a member of the [[Rajya Sabha]] on 28 April 2016. As per reports, Sidhu was given the [[Rajya Sabha]] nomination in a bid to prevent him from joining the [[Aam Aadmi Party]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/navjot-singh-sidhu-takes-oath-as-rajya-sabha-member-see-pics_1880389.html|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu takes oath as Rajya Sabha member – SEE PICS|date=28 April 2016|access-date=10 September 2016}}</ref> However he resigned from the [[Rajya Sabha]] on 18 July 2016.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-from-rajya-sabha-amid-aap-buzz/story-oWCoRBXdYAv9BSRg2Jb6JP.html |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu stumps BJP, quits Rajya Sabha amid AAP buzz |publisher=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=18 July 2016 |access-date=18 June 2016}}</ref>
===Aawaaz-e-Punjab===
On 2 September 2016, Sidhu along with [[Pargat Singh]] and Bains brothers formed a new political front - Aawaaz-e-Punjab claiming to fight against those working against Punjab.<ref>{{cite web |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu forms Aawaaz-e-Punjab |website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Navjot-Singh-Sidhu-forms-new-front-Awaaz-e-Punjab/articleshow/53978835.cms}}</ref>
===Indian National Congress===
In January 2017, Sidhu joined the [[Indian National Congress]]. Contesting from [[Amritsar East (Vidhan Sabha Constituency)|Amritsar East]] in the [[2017 Punjab Legislative Assembly election|2017 Punjab Assembly elections]], he won the election by a margin of 42,809 votes.<ref>{{cite web|title=Navjot Sidhu wins Amritsar (East) seat by over 40,000 votes|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/navjot-sidhu-wins-amritsar-east-seat-by-over-40000-votes/1/902260.html|work=India Today|access-date=11 March 2017|date=11 March 2017}}</ref> Third on the list of nine ministers who were sworn in was Navjot Singh Sidhu, the cricketer-turned-politician who quit the BJP last year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indtoday.com/amarinder-singh-takes-oath-as-punjab-cm-navjot-singh-sidhu-as-minister/|title=Amarinder Singh takes oath as Punjab CM, Navjot Singh Sidhu as Minister - INDToday|website=indtoday.com|date=16 March 2017}}</ref>


On 2 September 2016, Sidhu along with [[Pargat Singh]] and Bains brothers formed a new political front - Aawaaz-e-Punjab claiming to fight against those working against Punjab.<ref>{{cite web |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu forms Aawaaz-e-Punjab |website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Navjot-Singh-Sidhu-forms-new-front-Awaaz-e-Punjab/articleshow/53978835.cms}}</ref>
As Minister of Tourism and Local Bodies, Sidhu contributed to the Project Virasat<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/-thatheras-of-jandiala-guru-find-saviour-in-minister/596101.html|title=The Tribune: 'Thatheras' of Jandiala Guru find saviour in minister|last=Amritsar|first=Tribune News Service|date=28 May 2018}}</ref> to revive India's only handicraft on [[UNESCO]]'s list of [[UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists|Intangible Cultural Heritage]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ich.unesco.org/en/lists|title=UNESCO - Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making among the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru, Punjab, India|website=ich.unesco.org|language=en|access-date=1 July 2019}}</ref> This craft of making brass utensils is professed by the [[Thathera]]s of [[Jandiala Guru]] area, which falls under his former [[Lok Sabha]] constituency of [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Rana |first=Yudhvir |date=24 June 2018 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/age-old-craft-of-thatheras-to-get-new-life/articleshow/64715430.cms |title=Jandiala utensils: Age-old craft of thatheras to get new life |work=The Times of India |access-date=1 July 2019}}</ref>


In January 2017, Sidhu joined the [[Indian National Congress]]. Contesting from [[Amritsar East (Vidhan Sabha Constituency)|Amritsar East]] in the [[2017 Punjab Legislative Assembly election|2017 Punjab Assembly elections]], he won the election by a margin of 42,809 votes.<ref>{{cite web|title=Navjot Sidhu wins Amritsar (East) seat by over 40,000 votes|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/navjot-sidhu-wins-amritsar-east-seat-by-over-40000-votes/1/902260.html|work=India Today|access-date=11 March 2017|date=11 March 2017}}</ref> Third on the list of nine ministers who were sworn in was Navjot Singh Sidhu, the cricketer-turned-politician who quit the BJP last year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indtoday.com/amarinder-singh-takes-oath-as-punjab-cm-navjot-singh-sidhu-as-minister/|title=Amarinder Singh takes oath as Punjab CM, Navjot Singh Sidhu as Minister - INDToday|website=indtoday.com|date=16 March 2017}}</ref>
In 2018, Sidhu went to Pakistan for swearing in event of Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan. At the event he had hugged Pakistani army head [[Qamar Javed Bajwa]].<ref name= TI>{{Cite news|date=28 September 2021|title=From cricket to politics, dramatic moments in Navjot Singh Sidhu's career|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/from-cricket-to-politics-dramatic-moments-in-navjot-singh-sidhus-career/articleshow/86589275.cms|access-date=4 October 2021|work=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Then Punjab Chief minister [[Amarinder Singh|Amrinder Singh]] criticized him for doing this.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sehgal |first=Manjeet |date=22 August 2018 |title=Sidhu's hug for Pakistan Army chief Bajwa creates fissures in Punjab Congress |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/sidhu-s-hug-for-pakistan-army-chief-bajwa-creates-fissures-in-punjab-congress-1320819-2018-08-22 |access-date=5 October 2021 |work=India Today|language=en}}</ref>


As Minister of Tourism and Local Bodies, Sidhu did notable work under Project Virasat<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/-thatheras-of-jandiala-guru-find-saviour-in-minister/596101.html|title=The Tribune: 'Thatheras' of Jandiala Guru find saviour in minister|last=Amritsar|first=Tribune News Service|date=28 May 2018}}</ref> to revive India's only handicraft on [[UNESCO]]'s list of [[UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists|Intangible Cultural Heritage]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ich.unesco.org/en/lists|title=UNESCO - Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making among the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru, Punjab, India|website=ich.unesco.org|language=en|access-date=1 July 2019}}</ref> This craft of making brass utensils is professed by the [[Thathera]]s of [[Jandiala Guru]] area, which falls under his former [[Lok Sabha]] constituency of [[Amritsar (Lok Sabha constituency)|Amritsar]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/age-old-craft-of-thatheras-to-get-new-life/articleshow/64715430.cms|title=Jandiala utensils: Age-old craft of thatheras to get new life {{!}} Chandigarh News - Times of India|last1=24 Jun|first1=Yudhvir Rana {{!}} TNN {{!}} Updated|last2=2018|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=1 July 2019|last3=Ist|first3=11:15}}</ref>
In June 2019, Sidhu was sacked from the Local Bodies Ministry and Tourism ministry by CM Amarinder Singh.<ref name="LatestLY 9 June 2019">{{cite news |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu, Stripped of Local Bodies Ministry, Now Left Out of 8 Key Advisory Groups Formed by Punjab CM Amarinder Singh |url=https://www.latestly.com/india/politics/navjot-singh-sidhu-stripped-of-local-bodies-ministry-now-left-out-of-8-key-advisory-groups-formed-by-punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-911814.html |access-date=7 April 2022 |work=LatestLY |date=9 June 2019 |language=en}}</ref>


On 23 April 2019, the [[Election Commission of India|Indian Election Commission]] banned Sidhu from election campaigning for 72 hours for violating the model code of conduct. Earlier the Commission issued a notice to Sidhu for seeking votes on religion lines at a rally in [[Katihar district|Katihar]] district of [[Bihar]].
On 23 April 2019, the [[Election Commission of India|Indian Election Commission]] banned Sidhu from election campaigning for 72 hours for violating the model code of conduct. Earlier the Commission issued a notice to Sidhu for seeking votes on religion lines at a rally in [[Katihar district|Katihar]] district of [[Bihar]].


On 14 July 2019, Sidhu tweeted a copy of his resignation from the [[Government of Punjab, India|Punjab Cabinet]], dated 10 June 2019 and addressed to [[Rahul Gandhi]].<ref name="Hindu14Jul2019">{{cite news |last1=Vasudeva |first1=Vikas |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu resigns from Punjab Cabinet |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-from-punjab-cabinet/article28427484.ece |access-date=14 July 2019 |work=[[The Hindu]] |date=14 July 2019 |language=en-IN}}</ref><ref name="ET14Jul2019">{{cite news |last1=PTI |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu resigns from the Punjab Cabinet |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-from-the-punjab-cabinet/articleshow/70213132.cms |access-date=14 July 2019 |work=[[The Economic Times]] |date=14 July 2019}}</ref> On 20 July 2019, Punjab Chief Minister [[Captain Amarinder Singh]] and Punjab Governor [[V.P. Singh Badnore]] accepted Sidhu's resignation.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kamaljit Kaur |first1=Sandhu |title=Punjab CM Amarinder Singh, Governor accepts Navjot Singh Sidhu's resignation |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-accepts-navjot-singh-sidhu-s-resignation-1571496-2019-07-20 |access-date=20 July 2019 |work=India Today |date=20 July 2019 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Ghazali |first1=Mohammed |last2=Achom |first2=Debanish  |title=Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Accepts Navjot Sidhu's Resignation |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/punjab-chief-minister-amarinder-singh-accepts-navjot-singh-sidhus-resignation-2072501 |access-date=20 July 2019 |work=[[NDTV]] |date=20 July 2019}}</ref> Later, Sidhu openly criticised the Punjab Government about their handling of the Sacrilege Case, however the party termed it as a diversity of views.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=DelhiMay 19|first1=Press Trust of India New|last2=May 19|first2=2021UPDATED|last3=Ist|first3=2021 09:14|title=As Sidhu-Amarinder rift grows, Congress says no factionalism in Punjab, only diversity of opinions|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/as-sidhu-amarinder-rift-grows-congress-says-no-factionalism-in-punjab-only-diversity-of-opinions-1804218-2021-05-19|access-date=2021-06-17|website=India Today|language=en}}</ref>
On 14 July 2019, Sidhu tweeted a copy of his resignation from the [[Government of Punjab, India|Punjab Cabinet]], dated 10 June 2019 and addressed to [[Rahul Gandhi]].<ref name="Hindu14Jul2019">{{cite news |last1=Vasudeva |first1=Vikas |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu resigns from Punjab Cabinet |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-from-punjab-cabinet/article28427484.ece |access-date=14 July 2019 |work=[[The Hindu]] |date=14 July 2019 |language=en-IN}}</ref><ref name="ET14Jul2019">{{cite news |last1=PTI |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu resigns from the Punjab Cabinet |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-from-the-punjab-cabinet/articleshow/70213132.cms |access-date=14 July 2019 |work=[[The Economic Times]] |date=14 July 2019}}</ref> On 20 July 2019, Punjab Chief Minister [[Captain Amarinder Singh]] and Punjab Governor [[V.P. Singh Badnore]] accepted Sidhu's resignation.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kamaljit Kaur |first1=Sandhu |title=Punjab CM Amarinder Singh, Governor accepts Navjot Singh Sidhu's resignation |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-accepts-navjot-singh-sidhu-s-resignation-1571496-2019-07-20 |access-date=20 July 2019 |work=India Today |date=20 July 2019 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Ghazali |first1=Mohammed |last2=Achom |first2=Debanish  |title=Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Accepts Navjot Sidhu's Resignation |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/punjab-chief-minister-amarinder-singh-accepts-navjot-singh-sidhus-resignation-2072501 |access-date=20 July 2019 |work=[[NDTV]] |date=20 July 2019}}</ref> Later, Sidhu openly criticised the Punjab Government about their handling of the Sacrilege Case, however the party termed it as a diversity of views.<ref>{{Cite news |last=PTI |date=19 May 2021 |title=As Sidhu-Amarinder rift grows, Congress says no factionalism in Punjab, only diversity of opinions |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/as-sidhu-amarinder-rift-grows-congress-says-no-factionalism-in-punjab-only-diversity-of-opinions-1804218-2021-05-19 |access-date=17 June 2021 |work=India Today}}</ref>


On 18 July 2021, Sidhu was appointed as President of [[Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee]] replacing [[Sunil Kumar Jakhar|Shri Sunil Jakhar]].<ref>{{Cite news|first=Indian National Congress|date=18 July 2021|title=Appointment of PCC President & Working Presidents of Punjab PCC|work=Indian National Congress|url=https://www.inc.in/media/press-releases/press-release-appointment-of-pcc-president-and-working-presidents-of-punjab-pcc|access-date=22 September 2021}}</ref>
On 18 July 2021, Sidhu was appointed as President of [[Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee]] replacing [[Sunil Kumar Jakhar|Shri Sunil Jakhar]].<ref>{{Cite news|date=18 July 2021|title=Appointment of PCC President & Working Presidents of Punjab PCC|work=Indian National Congress|url=https://www.inc.in/media/press-releases/press-release-appointment-of-pcc-president-and-working-presidents-of-punjab-pcc|access-date=22 September 2021}}</ref>


On 28 September 2021, Navjot Singh Sidhu resigned as Punjab Congress President. He sent his resignation letter to the party chief Sonia Gandhi. But high command rejected his resignation.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-28|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu Resigns as Punjab Congress President|url=https://www.thelivemirror.com/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-as-punjab-congress-president/|access-date=2021-09-28|website=The Live Mirror|language=en-US}}</ref>
On 28 September 2021, Navjot Singh Sidhu resigned as Punjab Congress President. He sent his resignation letter to the party chief Sonia Gandhi. But high command rejected his resignation.<ref>{{Cite web|date=28 September 2021|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu Resigns as Punjab Congress President|url=https://www.thelivemirror.com/navjot-singh-sidhu-resigns-as-punjab-congress-president/|access-date=28 September 2021|website=The Live Mirror|language=en-US}}</ref>
 
In the [[2022 Punjab Legislative Assembly election]], Sidhu, contesting from the [[Amritsar East (Vidhan Sabha Constituency)|Amritsar East]] seat, lost to [[Aam Aadmi Party]] candidate [[Jeevan Jyot Kaur]].<ref name="Mint2022">{{Cite news |date=10 March 2022 |title=Punjab results 2022: State Congress chief Navjot Sidhu loses from Amritsar East |url=https://www.livemint.com/elections/assembly-elections/punjab-results-2022-state-congress-chief-navjot-sidhu-loses-from-amritsar-east-11646905658858.html |access-date=10 March 2022 |work=Mint |language=en}}</ref>


===Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur Corridor===
===Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur Corridor===
In August 2018, former Indian cricketer turned politician and current Tourism Minister of the [[Government of Punjab, India|Government of Punjab]], Navjot Singh Sidhu was invited to the oath taking ceremony of the newly elected prime minister of [[Pakistan]], [[Imran Khan]]. After being attacked over his decision to hug [[Qamar Javed Bajwa]], the [[Chief of Army Staff (Pakistan)|Chief of Army Staff]] of the [[Pakistan Army]], Sidhu claimed that Bajwa had assured him of opening the corridor before the 550th birth anniversary of [[Guru Nanak]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/kartarpur-corridor-mission-for-24-yrs-he-now-sees-hope/641493.html|title=Kartarpur corridor mission for 24 yrs, he now sees hope|last=Singh|first=Jupinderjit|date=23 August 2018|work=Tribune India|accessdate=10 March 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/govt-to-approach-pm-on-kartarpur-corridor/640763.html|title=Govt to approach PM on Kartarpur corridor|last=Singh|first=Rajmeet|date=22 August 2018|work=Tribune India|accessdate=10 March 2021}}</ref>
In August 2018, former Indian cricketer turned politician and current Tourism Minister of the [[Government of Punjab, India|Government of Punjab]], Navjot Singh Sidhu was invited to the oath taking ceremony of the newly elected prime minister of [[Pakistan]], [[Imran Khan]]. After being attacked over his decision to hug [[Qamar Javed Bajwa]], the [[Chief of Army Staff (Pakistan)|Chief of Army Staff]] of the [[Pakistan Army]], Sidhu claimed that Bajwa had assured him of opening the corridor before the 550th birth anniversary of [[Guru Nanak]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/kartarpur-corridor-mission-for-24-yrs-he-now-sees-hope/641493.html|title=Kartarpur corridor mission for 24 yrs, he now sees hope|last=Singh|first=Jupinderjit|date=23 August 2018|work=Tribune India|access-date=10 March 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/govt-to-approach-pm-on-kartarpur-corridor/640763.html|title=Govt to approach PM on Kartarpur corridor|last=Singh|first=Rajmeet|date=22 August 2018|work=Tribune India|access-date=10 March 2021}}</ref>


Subsequently, [[Government of Pakistan]] in September 2018, decided to open the [[Kartarpur corridor]] before the 550th birth anniversary of [[Guru Nanak]] for visa-free entry of followers of [[Sikhism]] from [[India]] to [[Pakistan]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/sikhs-to-get-visa-free-access-to-kartarpur-gurdwara-pakistan/articleshow/65726655.cms|title=Sikhs to get visa-free access to Kartarpur gurdwara: Pakistan|date=8 September 2018|website=The Times of India|access-date=3 January 2020}}</ref> After the corridor opening was confirmed by Pakistan's [[Ministry of Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage (Pakistan)|Information and Broadcasting Minister]] [[Fawad Chaudhry]], Navjot Singh Sidhu appreciated his cricket friend [[Imran Khan]] for taking such a great step.<ref>{{cite news |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu thanks 'friend' Imran Khan for Kartarpur corridor announcement |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/sep/07/navjot-singh-sidhu-thanks-friend-imran-khan-for-kartarpur-corridor-announcement-1868906.html |access-date=10 March 2021 |work=The New Indian Express |date=7 September 2018}}</ref>
Subsequently, [[Government of Pakistan]] in September 2018, decided to open the [[Kartarpur corridor]] before the 550th birth anniversary of [[Guru Nanak]] for visa-free entry of followers of [[Sikhism]] from [[India]] to [[Pakistan]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/sikhs-to-get-visa-free-access-to-kartarpur-gurdwara-pakistan/articleshow/65726655.cms|title=Sikhs to get visa-free access to Kartarpur gurdwara: Pakistan|date=8 September 2018|website=The Times of India|access-date=3 January 2020}}</ref> After the corridor opening was confirmed by Pakistan's [[Ministry of Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage (Pakistan)|Information and Broadcasting Minister]] [[Fawad Chaudhry]], Navjot Singh Sidhu appreciated his cricket friend [[Imran Khan]] for taking such a great step.<ref>{{cite news |title=Navjot Singh Sidhu thanks 'friend' Imran Khan for Kartarpur corridor announcement |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/sep/07/navjot-singh-sidhu-thanks-friend-imran-khan-for-kartarpur-corridor-announcement-1868906.html |access-date=10 March 2021 |work=The New Indian Express |date=7 September 2018}}</ref>


In late November 2018, Sidhu came under controversy with a photo of [[Khalistan Liberation Force|Khalistani]] separatist leader Gopal Singh Chawla, a controversial Khalistani separatist leader accused of having close ties with [[Hafiz Muhammad Saeed|Hafiz Saeed]]. Sidhu dismissed those claims and claimed "Thousands of people met me every day in Pakistan and clicked photographs with me. How would I know who Chawla or Cheema is?".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/on-pakistan-return-sidhu-asks-whos-chawla/articleshow/66874150.cms |title=Who's Chawla? Navjot Singh Sidhu on pic with separatist |first1=Yudhvir |last1=Rana |first2=Vibhor |last2=Mohan |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=30 November 2018 |access-date=2 May 2019}}</ref>
In late November 2018, Sidhu came under controversy with a photo of [[Khalistan Liberation Force|Khalistani]] separatist leader Gopal Singh Chawla, a controversial Khalistani separatist leader accused of having close ties with [[Hafiz Muhammad Saeed|Hafiz Saeed]]. Sidhu dismissed those claims and claimed "Thousands of people met me every day in Pakistan and clicked photographs with me. How would I know who Chawla or Cheema is?".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/on-pakistan-return-sidhu-asks-whos-chawla/articleshow/66874150.cms |title=Who's Chawla? Navjot Singh Sidhu on pic with separatist |first1=Yudhvir |last1=Rana |first2=Vibhor |last2=Mohan |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=30 November 2018 |access-date=2 May 2019}}</ref>
 
==Electoral performance == 
== Controversy ==
{{transcluded section|source=Amritsar East Assembly constituency}}
===Comments on the Pulwama attack===
{{#section:Amritsar East Assembly constituency|Assembly Election 2022}}
==Opinion==
=== Pulwama attack ===
{{See also|Pulwama attack}}
{{See also|Pulwama attack}}
On 15 February 2019, during an appearance on ''[[The Kapil Sharma Show]]'', Sidhu condemned the recent attack on Indian soldiers in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir as "cowardly and dastardly". However, he found himself in a controversy when he went on to ask: "For a handful of people, can you blame the entire nation of [[Pakistan]] and can you blame an individual?"<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chakraborty |first1=Abhishek |last2=PTI |title="Can You Blame Entire Nation?" Anger Over Navjot Sidhu's Pulwama Remark |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navjot-sidhu-condemns-pulwama-attack-but-follows-up-with-controversial-remark-1994264 |access-date=10 March 2021 |work=NDTV |date=16 February 2019}}</ref>
On 15 February 2019, during an appearance on ''[[The Kapil Sharma Show]]'', Sidhu condemned the recent attack on Indian soldiers in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir as "cowardly and dastardly". However, he found himself in a controversy when he went on to ask: "For a handful of people, can you blame the entire nation of [[Pakistan]] and can you blame an individual?"<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chakraborty |first1=Abhishek |last2=PTI |title="Can You Blame Entire Nation?" Anger Over Navjot Sidhu's Pulwama Remark |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navjot-sidhu-condemns-pulwama-attack-but-follows-up-with-controversial-remark-1994264 |access-date=10 March 2021 |work=NDTV |date=16 February 2019}}</ref>
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On 16 February, it was reported that ''The Kapil Sharma Show'' had responded by removing Sidhu as presenter and permanent guest, with [[Archana Puran Singh]] replacing him.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/television/navjot-singh-sidhu-sacked-from-the-kapil-sharma-show-5587080/|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu sacked from The Kapil Sharma Show after comments on Pulwama attack|date=16 February 2019|website=The Indian Express|language=en-IN|access-date=16 February 2019}}</ref>
On 16 February, it was reported that ''The Kapil Sharma Show'' had responded by removing Sidhu as presenter and permanent guest, with [[Archana Puran Singh]] replacing him.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/television/navjot-singh-sidhu-sacked-from-the-kapil-sharma-show-5587080/|title=Navjot Singh Sidhu sacked from The Kapil Sharma Show after comments on Pulwama attack|date=16 February 2019|website=The Indian Express|language=en-IN|access-date=16 February 2019}}</ref>
=== Balakot air strike===
=== Balakot air strike===
{{Main|2019 Balakot airstrike}}
{{Main|2019 Balakot airstrike}}
Sidhu criticised India airforce's anti-terrorism operation at [[Balakot]] in Pakistan. He questioned by tweet, 'Were you uprooting terrorist or trees?' Sidhu questioned the purpose of Balakot air strike.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/were-you-uprooting-terrorist-or-trees-sidhu-questions-the-purpose-of-balakot-air-strikes/article26429327.ece|title = 'Were you uprooting terrorist or trees?' Sidhu questions the purpose of Balakot air strikes|newspaper = The Hindu|date = 4 March 2019}}</ref>
Sidhu criticised India airforce's anti-terrorism operation at [[Balakot]] in Pakistan. He questioned by tweet, 'Were you uprooting terrorist or trees?' Sidhu questioned the purpose of Balakot air strike.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/were-you-uprooting-terrorist-or-trees-sidhu-questions-the-purpose-of-balakot-air-strikes/article26429327.ece|title = 'Were you uprooting terrorist or trees?' Sidhu questions the purpose of Balakot air strikes|newspaper = The Hindu|date = 4 March 2019}}</ref>


===Pakistan visits ===
==Conviction for homicide==
Navajot Singh Sidhu gone to Pakistan for swearing in event of Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan. In Pakistan he hugged Pakistani army head [[Qamar Javed Bajwa|Qumar Javed Bajwa]]. <ref name= TI>{{Cite web|last1=Sep 28|first1=TIMESOFINDIA COM / Updated|last2=2021|last3=Ist|first3=23:20|title=From cricket to politics, dramatic moments in Navjot Singh Sidhu's career {{!}} India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/from-cricket-to-politics-dramatic-moments-in-navjot-singh-sidhus-career/articleshow/86589275.cms|access-date=2021-10-04|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> Then Punjab Chief minister [[Amarinder Singh|Amrinder Singh]] slammed him for doing this.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Ch|first1=Manjeet Sehgal|last2=igarhAugust 22|last3=September 7|first3=2018UPDATED|last4=Ist|first4=2018 10:33|title=Sidhu's hug for Pakistan Army chief Bajwa creates fissures in Punjab Congress|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/sidhu-s-hug-for-pakistan-army-chief-bajwa-creates-fissures-in-punjab-congress-1320819-2018-08-22|access-date=2021-10-05|website=India Today|language=en}}</ref>
 
===Conviction for homicide===
In 1991, Sidhu was accused of assaulting Gurnam Singh and causing his death.<ref name="indiankanoon1">{{cite web|url=http://www.indiankanoon.org/doc/1991049/|title=State Of Punjab vs Navjot Singh Sidhu And Anr. on 6 December, 2006|access-date=10 September 2016}}</ref> He was arrested by [[Punjab Police (India)|Punjab Police]] after the incident and had to spend many days lodged in a Patiala jail. It was reported that Sidhu had an accomplice who helped him in the murder of Gurnam Singh; the name of the alleged accomplice was Bhupinder Singh Sandhu. Sidhu denied all charges against him.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.punjabnewsline.com/content/navjot-sidhu-surrenders-lodged-patiala-jail|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028215937/http://www.punjabnewsline.com/content/navjot-sidhu-surrenders-lodged-patiala-jail|url-status=dead|title=Navjot Sidhu surrenders, lodged in Patiala jail|archive-date=28 October 2012|access-date=3 January 2020}}</ref> Sidhu claimed in court that he was innocent and "falsely involved in this case by the complainant party".<ref name="indiankanoon1" /> Jaswinder Singh, nephew of Gurnam Singh, claimed that he was a witness to the crime and was ready to testify in the [[Supreme Court of India]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://m.rediff.com/news/2006/dec/06sidhu3.htm|title=Sidhu to move SC, claims innocence|work=rediff.com|date=6 December 2006}}</ref>
In 1991, Sidhu was accused of assaulting Gurnam Singh and causing his death.<ref name="indiankanoon1">{{cite web|url=http://www.indiankanoon.org/doc/1991049/|title=State Of Punjab vs Navjot Singh Sidhu And Anr. on 6 December, 2006|access-date=10 September 2016}}</ref> He was arrested by [[Punjab Police (India)|Punjab Police]] after the incident and had to spend many days lodged in a Patiala jail. It was reported that Sidhu had an accomplice who helped him in the murder of Gurnam Singh; the name of the alleged accomplice was Bhupinder Singh Sandhu. Sidhu denied all charges against him.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.punjabnewsline.com/content/navjot-sidhu-surrenders-lodged-patiala-jail|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028215937/http://www.punjabnewsline.com/content/navjot-sidhu-surrenders-lodged-patiala-jail|url-status=dead|title=Navjot Sidhu surrenders, lodged in Patiala jail|archive-date=28 October 2012|access-date=3 January 2020}}</ref> Sidhu claimed in court that he was innocent and "falsely involved in this case by the complainant party".<ref name="indiankanoon1" /> Jaswinder Singh, nephew of Gurnam Singh, claimed that he was a witness to the crime and was ready to testify in the [[Supreme Court of India]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://m.rediff.com/news/2006/dec/06sidhu3.htm|title=Sidhu to move SC, claims innocence|work=rediff.com|date=6 December 2006}}</ref>


A trial court had discharged Mr Sidhu, but the Punjab and Haryana High Court held him guilty of culpable homicide in 2006 and sent him to jail for three years in the road rage case.
A trial court had discharged Mr Sidhu, but the Punjab and Haryana High Court held him guilty of culpable homicide in 2006 and sent him to jail for three years in the road rage case.


The cricketer-turned-politician and his friend then approached the Supreme Court. In 2007, the Supreme Court suspended Mr Sidhu's sentence and granted him bail. The suspended sentence enabled him to contest the Lok Sabha bypolls from Amritsar.<ref>[https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navjot-singh-sidhu-may-face-jail-in-1998-road-rage-case-for-which-he-was-fined-supreme-court-to-deci-1915488 "Navjot Sidhu, Fined In Road Rage Case, May Face Jail; Top Court To Decide"], ''[[NDTV]]''</ref>
The cricketer-turned-politician and his friend then approached the Supreme Court. In 2007, the Supreme Court suspended Mr Sidhu's sentence and granted him bail. The suspended sentence enabled him to contest the Lok Sabha bypolls from Amritsar.<ref name="NDTVSep2018">{{cite news |last1=Vaidyanathan |first1=A. |last2=Debanish |first2=Achom |title=Navjot Sidhu, Fined In Road Rage Case, May Face Jail; Top Court To Decide |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navjot-singh-sidhu-may-face-jail-in-1998-road-rage-case-for-which-he-was-fined-supreme-court-to-deci-1915488 |access-date=13 March 2022 |work=NDTV |date=13 September 2018}}</ref>


In 2018, a bench headed by Justices Chalemeswar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul let the two off with a fine of ₹ 1,000, because "there was no evidence to prove that that the death was caused by the single blow" dealt by Mr Sidhu.
In 2018, a bench headed by Justices Chalemeswar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul let the two off with a fine of ₹ 1,000, because "there was no evidence to prove that that the death was caused by the single blow" dealt by Sidhu.<ref name="NDTVSep2018"/> On 19 May 2022, he was given one-year prison sentence by the Supreme Court in the same road rage case.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2022-05-19 |title=SC sentences Navjot Singh Sidhu to one year in jail in 1988 road rage case |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/navjot-singh-sidhu-sent-to-one-year-in-jail-by-supreme-court-in-1988-road-rage-101652949612490.html |access-date=2022-05-19 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref>


==In popular culture==
==In popular culture==
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* {{ESPNcricinfo|id=34028}}
* {{ESPNcricinfo|id=34028}}


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