Punjab Newsline, Ludhiana-
In a powerful show of support for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Sanjeev Arora in the upcoming Ludhiana West by-election, National Convenor and Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, alongside Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, addressed massive and electrified crowds in ward no. 59 and 65. Kejriwal highlighted AAP’s historic 2022 Punjab mandate, securing 92 of 117 seats, underscoring the party’s commitment to fulfilling its promises, while Mann expressed gratitude for the overwhelming enthusiasm, interpreting it as a clear sign of the electorate’s favour toward AAP.
During these public gatherings AAP Candidate MP Sanjeev Arora, AAP Punjab President Aman Arora, Working President Amansher Singh Shery Kalsi, Senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia, Cabinet Ministers, AAP MLAs and leaders were also present.
Paying tribute to the late Gurpreet Gogi, Kejriwal expressed condolences for the untimely loss of the Ludhiana West MLA, who passed away earlier this year in an accident. He remarked, “I pray for peace for Gogi ji’s soul. His absence led to the by-election scheduled for June 19. It is now essential to elect an MLA from the ruling party to ensure development in the constituency.”
Kejriwal shared an anecdote to stress the need for alignment between the state government and the local representative. He explained, “An individual told me he would vote for the Congress candidate because of family tradition. I asked him: If your road is damaged, there’s no water supply, or you face any administrative issue, who will resolve it? The Congress candidate, Bharat Bhushan Ashu, has no power or resources to help. Only the ruling party can deliver development.”
Kejriwal praised AAP candidate Sanjeev Arora for his dedication to public service and highlighted his swift action in addressing long-pending issues in the constituency. “In March, CM Bhagwant Mann and I visited Ludhiana West, where residents raised concerns about unresolved property registry issues for over 70 years. Within two months, Sanjeev Arora resolved most of these cases, even before becoming an MLA,” Kejriwal said.
Sharing an inspiring story of Arora’s charitable efforts, Kejriwal narrated how Arora raised ₹12 crore to procure a life-saving injection for a child suffering from a rare disease. “If Sanjeev Arora can rally the world to save a stranger’s life, imagine what he can do for Ludhiana West,” he said.
Kejriwal made a significant announcement, promising to appoint Sanjeev Arora as a Cabinet Minister if elected. “If you elect Sanjeev Arora as your MLA, we will make him a Cabinet Minister. With ministerial power and resources, he will transform Ludhiana West,” he declared.
Kejriwal contrasted Arora’s humility and dedication with the arrogance and anger of his opponent. “This time, vote for a leader who is polite, approachable, and committed to serving the people. Sanjeev Arora is not just a candidate; he is a visionary who will ensure development in every aspect of your lives,” he added.
He concluded by urging voters to exercise their right early on June 19 and press the 'jharoo' button. “AAP’s vision for Punjab is clear: a future of honesty, prosperity, and opportunities for all. Together, we will make Ludhiana West a model constituency,” Kejriwal said.
Recalling the legacy of the late Gurpreet Gogi, Mann paid heartfelt tribute, praying for his soul to find eternal peace. He expressed disappointment in the opposition for their callous behavior, stating, “It is shameful that even before the rituals for Gogi’s passing were complete, the opposition began scheming their political moves.” Mann strongly criticized the opposition, singling out Bharat Bhushan Ashu for exploiting tragedies for political gain.
Highlighting AAP’s people-centric and inclusive approach, Mann remarked, “Our party works for humanity and unity. We neither divide nor provoke on religious grounds. Punjab has always been a leading state in India, and under AAP’s leadership, it will regain its glory.”