Ravneet Bittu Accepts CM Mann’s Debate Challenge, Says “Decide Place and Channel”

September 12, 2025

Ludhiana: The political tussle in Punjab has intensified after Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu accepted Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s open challenge for a debate. Bittu, who represents Ludhiana, said he is ready to face the Chief Minister at any time and on any platform chosen by Mann.

“Tell me the place and channel, I will come. But the debate must be on issues concerning the people of Punjab,” Bittu said, making it clear that he had not abused the Chief Minister, but only raised questions about governance and accountability.

The war of words between the two leaders escalated after CM Mann accused Bittu of indulging in personal attacks. In response, Bittu clarified that his remarks were issue-based, targeting the state government’s failures in handling law and order, unemployment, and corruption. “I have not disrespected the Chief Minister. My questions were about policies, not personalities,” he added.

Political observers see this exchange as a reflection of the sharpening contest between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab. With Lok Sabha elections not far away, both parties have stepped up their attacks, seeking to consolidate support.

Bittu further said that open debates are healthy for democracy and welcomed Mann’s challenge. “The people of Punjab deserve answers. Let us sit across the table, in front of the public, and discuss openly,” he remarked.

The debate, if it materializes, could mark a rare moment in Punjab politics, bringing the Chief Minister and a Union Minister face-to-face on live platforms. For now, all eyes are on CM Mann’s response—whether he will name the place and channel for the much-awaited showdown.