Punjab, February 26:
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora as its candidate for the Ludhiana West by-election. This decision has sparked speculation that AAP might be planning to send Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to the Rajya Sabha. However, the party has firmly denied these claims.
Opposition’s Sharp Reactions
Following Sanjeev Arora’s nomination, opposition parties have strongly criticized AAP. Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira took to Twitter, stating that if Arora is contesting the by-election, it is a clear indication that Kejriwal will take his Rajya Sabha seat. He called it a “dark day for Punjab” and alleged that AAP had offered Arora a cabinet position in Punjab as a reward.
Khaira further claimed that Kejriwal’s possible move to the Rajya Sabha would undermine Punjab’s political autonomy. He questioned how Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann would justify this decision, given his past statements in favor of Punjabi identity and regional politics.
Gurpreet Gogi’s Wife Was Also in the Race
Several candidates were in consideration for the Ludhiana West by-election, including Dr. Sukhchain Bassi Gogi, wife of late MLA Gurpreet Singh Gogi. She had been actively working in the constituency and was seen as a strong contender for the seat.
However, AAP’s decision to nominate Sanjeev Arora appears to be a strategic move, likely aimed at fulfilling the party’s broader political goals. Political analysts believe this decision could shape the party’s long-term plans.
Akali Dal’s Counterattack
Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia also criticized AAP, alleging that the party is using Punjab’s political resources to strengthen its position in Delhi. He stated, “AAP’s strategy is clear—vacating Sanjeev Arora’s Rajya Sabha seat to send either Arvind Kejriwal or Manish Sisodia to the upper house. This is a betrayal of Punjab’s interests.”
Youth Akali Dal President Sarabjit Singh Jhinjher echoed similar sentiments, claiming that AAP’s move was an attempt to increase Delhi’s influence over Punjab’s politics. He warned that Punjab’s people would not accept such interference.
AAP Denies Speculations
Amid the growing controversy, AAP has denied any plans of sending Kejriwal to the Rajya Sabha. Party spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar dismissed all rumors, calling them baseless.
As the Ludhiana West by-election approaches, the political battle between AAP and the opposition is intensifying. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact Punjab’s political landscape in the coming days.
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