Ravneet Singh Bittu, a seasoned politician and three-time Member of Parliament (MP), has experienced a roller-coaster ride in his political career. Despite his resounding defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Ludhiana, where he lost to Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Bittus political journey has taken a dramatic and upward turn.   Prime Minister Narendra Modis government swiftly elevated him to Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing, signaling the BJPs recognition of Bittus potential and importance in the partys broader strategy. Now, the BJP is preparing to further solidify his role by nominating him for the Rajya Sabha, with Haryana and Rajasthan being eyed as the potential states for his entry.   Bittus political journey has been marked by significant highs and lows. As the grandson of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh, who was assassinated by pro-Khalistan terrorists in August 1995, Bittu carries a legacy that has deep roots in Punjabs political landscape. His political career began in earnest when he first won in 2009 from Anandpur Sahib, a victory he repeated in 2014 and 2019, but this time from Ludhiana.   During his tenure, Bittu earned a reputation as a diligent MP, known for his work in his constituency and his vocal stance on issues affecting Punjab. However, the 2024 Lok Sabha elections proved to be a turning point. With his family having decades-long association with the Congress party, Bittu chose to join ranks with the BJP ahead of parliamentary polls to address Punjabs issues.   Running against Warring, Bittu faced a tough battle in Ludhiana, a constituency he had dominated for a decade. Despite his strong political background and experience, Bittu lost the seat. However, despite the electoral loss, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP leadership recognized Bittus value as a politician and strategist.   In a move that surprised many, Modi appointed Bittu as the Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing, bringing him into the Union Cabinet. This elevation was not merely a consolation prize for Bittu but a calculated decision by the BJP to harness his experience and keep him within the partys inner circle, while also eyeing to strengthen partys base in Punjab.   As part of its ongoing strategy to strengthen its hold in the upper house of Parliament, the BJP is now planning to nominate Bittu for the Rajya Sabha. The recent vacancies in Haryana and Rajasthan have presented the party with an opportunity to position Bittu in a role that could benefit both the BJP and his political career.   BJP is eyeing the vacant Rajya Sabha seats in Haryana and Rajasthan, previously held by prominent Congress leaders like Deepender Singh Hooda and KC Venugopal, presenting a golden opportunity for the party to strengthen its presence in the Upper House.   Bittu has quickly risen through the BJP ranks after switching allegiances. His potential nomination from Haryana has sparked a mix of anticipation and dissent among local BJP leaders, some of whom are reportedly maneuvering to counter this move. The internal dynamics within the BJP in Haryana are heating up, with various leaders vying for influence and attempting to shape the outcome in their favour.   As the political chessboard is being set, the timeline for this high-stakes game is clear. The Election Commission of India is set to issue the official notification on August 14, marking the start of the nomination process. Candidates have until August 21 to file their nominations, with scrutiny scheduled for the following day, August 22. Those wishing to withdraw from the race have until August 27, after which the stage will be set for the voting on September 3. The results will be declared on the same day at 5 pm.   In Haryana, Bittus nomination is seen as a potential game-changer, particularly as the state prepares for its assembly elections. His entry could bolster the BJPs appeal among the Sikh electorate, which holds considerable sway in the State. Furthermore, by nominating Bittu from Haryana, the BJP could also indirectly influence the upcoming by-elections in Punjab, where four seats are up for grabs.   Rajasthan, another state under consideration, presents its own strategic advantages. The districts bordering Punjab have a significant Sikh population, and Bittus presence in the Rajya Sabha could help the BJP consolidate its support among these voters. With Rajasthan also heading for assembly elections, Bittus nomination could be instrumental in securing the BJPs position in this key state.   Bittus potential nomination to the Rajya Sabha is more than just a means of keeping him in the political spotlight; it is a strategic move by the BJP to ensure that his experience and influence continue to benefit the party. By positioning Bittu in the Rajya Sabha, the BJP is not only rewarding his loyalty but also ensuring that he remains a key player in their national and regional strategies.

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