The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has stirred up some speculation by selecting its Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora to contest in an assembly by-election. This has led to discussions about the possibility of party leader Arvind Kejriwal taking over Arora’s seat in the Upper House, especially after Arora’s recent loss in the Delhi assembly elections resulted in the end of his membership there.
This morning, AAP announced that Arora will run for the Ludhiana West by-election, which became available following the tragic passing of AAP MLA Gurpreet Gogi due to an accidental shooting while he was cleaning his firearm.
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Mr. Arora, a businessman, was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2022 representing Punjab, with his term lasting until 2028. However, since one individual cannot hold two positions simultaneously, he would need to resign from Parliament if he wins the by-election and wishes to serve as an MLA. Should that happen, his Rajya Sabha seat could potentially be given to Kejriwal. Although the AAP has not confirmed any such plans, discussions are reportedly taking place. In accepting the nomination for Ludhiana West, Arora expressed his gratitude to the AAP leadership in a social media post, notably omitting any reference to Kejriwal.
“I am truly honored and thankful to the leadership of the Aam Aadmi Party for trusting me to run in the Ludhiana West bye-elections. Being deeply rooted in my hometown, I am eager to serve my community with commitment and integrity”, expressed the AAP leader.
There are indications that he might be appointed as a minister in the Bhagwant Mann government if he secures a victory in the by-election, as a gesture of appreciation for stepping aside for the party leader.
Currently, Punjab represents a significant opportunity for Kejriwal, especially after his party’s loss of power in Delhi following a decade-long tenure. Since resigning as Chief Minister last year, he has been residing in Delhi at the home of another Punjab MP, Ashok Mittal.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
