AAP Announces Sanjeev Arora as Candidate for Ludhiana West Bypoll

AAP Announces Sanjeev Arora as Candidate for Ludhiana West Bypoll

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has named Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora as its candidate for the upcoming Ludhiana West Assembly bypoll in Punjab. The seat was left vacant after the untimely demise of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi in January 2025.

Why This Bypoll Matters

The Ludhiana West by-election is significant for AAP as it looks to strengthen its position in Punjab politics. The election must take place within six months of the seat becoming vacant, as per electoral regulations.

Sanjeev Arora, an industrialist, philanthropist, and social activist, has been serving as a Rajya Sabha MP since 2022. His selection as the candidate signals AAP’s strategy to bring experienced leaders into state politics and consolidate its voter base, particularly in urban areas where other parties, like the BJP, are making inroads.

AAP’s Political Strategy and Future Implications

Sources suggest that Arora’s nomination could also pave the way for potential reshuffles within the party, including at the parliamentary level. There is growing speculation that Arvind Kejriwal might contest for a Rajya Sabha seat, possibly replacing Arora if he wins the bypoll.

The move is also aimed at securing the Hindu vote bank, as Arora is a prominent figure in the business and philanthropic circles of Ludhiana. He has been actively involved in various social causes, including cancer care initiatives through his Krishna Pran Breast Cancer Charitable Trust.

Arora’s Social and Political Contributions

Apart from his political career, Arora has played a key role in healthcare and community service. He has supported over 300 cancer patients and has been involved in revamping district hospitals in Punjab. Additionally, he holds key positions in medical institutions and cultural organizations, further enhancing his credibility among voters.

Opposition and Election Battle

The bypoll is expected to be a three-way contest, with Congress likely to field former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, who previously held the seat but is currently facing legal issues. The BJP might retain Bikram Singh Sidhu as its candidate, while the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) is yet to confirm its participation.

In the 2022 Assembly elections, AAP’s Gurpreet Bassi Gogi had defeated Ashu, marking a significant victory. The upcoming bypoll will be a test for AAP’s governance in Punjab, particularly after recent political shifts and internal party dynamics.

Final Thoughts

Sanjeev Arora’s entry into state politics could bring new dynamics to the Punjab political landscape. With the election date yet to be announced, all eyes will be on AAP’s campaign strategies, opposition moves, and voter sentiment leading up to the bypoll.