AAP Makes Spectacular Comeback in Bypolls; Kejriwal's Strategy Pays Off in Punjab & Gujarat
Arvind Kejriwal Strategy Pays Off in Punjab & Gujarat
Naresh Sharma
The recent legislative assembly by-elections in four states have once again brought the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) into the national spotlight. After facing setbacks in Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal has made a resounding comeback with massive victories in both Punjab’s Ludhiana West constituency and Gujarat’s Visavadar Assembly by-election. These wins have not only boosted AAP’s morale but have also energized the party ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.”
Arvind Kejriwal : Historic Win for AAP in Ludhiana West
In the Ludhiana West bypoll, AAP candidate Sanjeev Arora secured a decisive victory with a strong majority. The election strategy was personally crafted by Arvind Kejriwal. Opposition parties, Congress and BJP, campaigned aggressively against AAP, claiming that if Arora won, Kejriwal would move to the Rajya Sabha. However, after the victory, Kejriwal clarified that he has no plans to enter the Upper House.
Arvind Kejriwal : AAP Strikes in Gujarat, Congress Suffers Major Blow
In Gujarat’s Visavadar seat, AAP registered an impressive win, while Congress’s candidate managed only 5,501 votes, losing his deposit. This victory has strengthened AAP’s foothold in Gujarat, signaling growing support for the party beyond Delhi and Punjab.
Congress’s Internal Strife Leads to Defeat
Congress’s loss in Ludhiana West was largely attributed to infighting. Candidate Bhushan Ashu accused Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring of not campaigning for him. He also accused CLP leader Partap Singh Bajwa. Local leaders also blamed Ashu’s arrogance for the defeat, claiming he failed to unite party workers.
Kejriwal’s Big Claim for 2027
Celebrating the victory, Kejriwal declared, “A storm is coming in Punjab in 2027.” He credited the win to AAP’s discipline and unity. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and senior AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain actively campaigned, showcasing the party’s collective effort.
BJP Fails to Make Significant Gains
Of the five seats contested in the bypolls, BJP managed to win only one. AAP’s triumph in Ludhiana proved the effectiveness of Kejriwal’s political strategy.
Next Steps: AAP to Discuss Future Strategy
Kejriwal has called a meeting in Delhi to celebrate the victory and plan future strategies. Punjab ministers and senior AAP leaders will attend the session to discuss the party’s roadmap.
