The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Punjab): The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has released its inaugural list of candidates for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections in Punjab, showcasing a strategic blend of political and cultural figures. Among the eight candidates are five current Cabinet ministers, signaling the party’s intent to leverage its governance track record in the state’s parliamentary contest.
NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal will contest from Amritsar, with other key ministerial figures, including Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, securing nominations for Khadoor Sahib and Bathinda, respectively. Additionally, Sports Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer and Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh have been slated for Sangrur and Patiala.
Sushil Rinku, the AAP’s incumbent MP from Jalandhar, is set for reelection, maintaining his position on the party’s ticket. The AAP has also extended its reach beyond its existing political cadre by nominating Gurpreet Singh GP, a former Congress MLA, and Karamjeet Anmol, a widely recognized Punjabi actor with a strong connection to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, for the Fatehgarh Sahib and Faridkot seats, respectively.
This move comes amidst the backdrop of the INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties including the AAP and Congress, navigating seat-sharing arrangements in other states while opting for separate contests in Punjab. This strategy underscores the unique political dynamics within Punjab, where the AAP seeks to consolidate its legislative success by making significant inroads in the parliamentary elections.
Notably, the Amritsar and Bathinda seats are currently held by Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) representatives, indicating the AAP’s ambition to challenge these strongholds. The inclusion of prominent public figures in the candidate list reflects the party’s broader strategy to appeal to a diverse electorate, bridging governance achievements with cultural resonance.
As Punjab prepares for the electoral showdown, the AAP’s candidate list represents a calculated blend of experience, governance, and celebrity appeal, setting the stage for a closely watched battle in the state’s political landscape.