The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has secured a significant victory in the Ludhiana West by-election, with Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora winning the seat. This was a matter of prestige for AAP in Punjab, especially amid internal discord and leadership criticism. Sanjeev Arora won by a margin of about 11,000 votes, receiving over 35,000 votes, while Congress and BJP garnered 25,000 and 20,000 votes respectively, giving him a tough competition.
In this by-election, there were a total of 14 candidates, but the contest primarily revolved around the three major parties. Voting took place on June 19, with a 51.33% turnout out of 174,000 voters. Sanjeev Arora is a well-known businessman and is now set to join the Punjab government's cabinet. Meanwhile, AAP plans to introduce a new face in the Rajya Sabha in his place.
AAP pushed hard for victory
AAP's convener, Arvind Kejriwal, treated this election with utmost seriousness. He promised Arora a ministerial post and emphasized that development would halt with a loss. To secure this win, the party deployed all its resources, with AAP leader Manish Sisodia handling the ground campaign personally.
This defeat has revealed internal factionalism within Congress. Former Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu and Charanjit Channi's factions were active, whereas Pratap Bajwa and Raja Warring's groups remained distanced from the election. Internal political tensions in Congress might escalate further.
BJP to devise new strategies based on performance
Though BJP did not expect victory, it posed a significant challenge to AAP with a fresh face. The party will now formulate its strategy in Punjab based on this performance. This by-election is not just a victory but could prove pivotal in shaping Punjab's political landscape in the coming years.
Why is this election important?
AAP:
Confirms public support before the 2027 assembly elections and strengthens central leadership in Punjab.
Congress:
Deepens the internal power struggle following the loss.
BJP:
Provides a strong foundation for future strategy.
Akali Dal (SAD):
Tests support base after revival under Sukhbir Badal's leadership.
