With the urban local body elections in Punjab just around the corner, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is leaving no stone unturned to solidify its position. At a high-level preparatory meeting, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP Punjab president Aman Arora outlined the party’s roadmap for the elections scheduled for December 21.
Arora, addressing senior leaders, MLAs, Ministers, and district office-bearers, emphasized AAP’s groundbreaking approach to candidate selection, describing it as a hallmark of transparency. “For the first time, candidates are being selected through dedicated screening committees, with nearly 350 office-bearers actively participating in the process,” he said.
The party has divided Punjab into 10 zones, each managed by nine-member committees, ensuring thorough scrutiny and merit-based selections for all 977 wards.
Highlighting public enthusiasm, Arora revealed that AAP had received an unprecedented number of applications, averaging 12-15 per ward. “This overwhelming response reflects the public’s trust in AAP’s governance model and vision,” he stated, expressing confidence in the party’s ability to achieve a historic victory. He attributed the optimism to the transformative initiatives of the Bhagwant Mann-led Government, which has brought about significant developmental changes in Punjab over the past two and a half years.
Meanwhile, AAP’s growing influence in Jalandhar has dealt a blow to its rivals. Former Jalandhar Mayor Jagdish Raja, along with Ward 65 councillor Anita Raja, joined AAP in a move that shook the Congress party. Raja, a veteran in local governance since 1991, and Anita Raja, a former Senior Deputy Mayor, bring extensive experience to AAP.
Welcoming them, CM Mann said: “This reflects AAP’s commitment to honest and transparent politics. Leaders with integrity recognize our potential to bring positive change.”
The momentum continued as several BJP and Congress leaders, including former councilors Arun Arora (Congress) and Vineet Dhir (BJP), defected to AAP. Joining them were BJP leaders Amit Luthra, Mohit Seth, and Kuljeet Happy, all expressing their faith in AAP’s vision.
AAP Punjab president Aman Arora welcomed these leaders at a Jalandhar event, asserting, “The overwhelming support we’re receiving is a clear indicator that Jalandhar’s next mayor will be from AAP.”
AAP’s confidence is fueled by its focus on public welfare and grassroots engagement. As Arora pointed out, “Our commitment to transparent governance and developmental work resonates with voters, ensuring a brighter future for urban governance in Punjab.”