The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is gearing up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Punjab, with plans to announce candidates for all 13 seats in the state within the next two to four days. Party's national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, made this announcement on Saturday during his visit to Jalandhar. He emphasized the importance of securing victory in all seats and rallying support behind Bhagwant Mann, the party's face in Punjab.
"We are in discussions regarding the candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, and within the next two to four days, the announcement will be made," said Kejriwal, as reported by news agency PTI.
He highlighted the significance of empowering Mann in his fight against the Centre's policies, stating, "If you ensure (the party's) victory in all 13 seats, you will strengthen Bhagwant Mann's hands."
Centre 'Insulting The People Of Punjab': Delhi CM Kejriwal
During his address, Kejriwal criticised the BJP-led Centre for its treatment of Punjab, citing instances such as the rejection of Punjab's tableau for the Republic Day parade and the alleged withholding of funds amounting to Rs 8,000 crore. He expressed his dismay, stating, "It is like insulting the people of Punjab", PTI reported
Kejriwal also highlighted past instances of conflict between the Punjab government and the Centre, including the need to approach the Supreme Court to convene a budget session in the assembly after the governor's refusal. He asserted that releasing the withheld funds could have facilitated infrastructural development in the state.
Amidst his criticisms, Kejriwal appealed to the people of Punjab for their support, acknowledging the progress made by the AAP in the state. "We have done a lot of work which had not been seen in the last 75 years by the people of Punjab," he remarked. However, he emphasised the ongoing challenges and the need for continued support from the electorate.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann echoed Kejriwal's sentiments, urging the public to maintain their trust in the AAP. He responded to queries regarding a potential alliance between the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the BJP, stating, "The alliance was never really broken." Mann criticised the SAD for considering an alliance with the BJP, particularly in light of unresolved issues concerning farmers.
Earlier in the day, Kejriwal inaugurated 165 'Aam Aadmi Clinics' in Punjab, bringing the total number of such healthcare facilities in the state to 829. This initiative aims to provide accessible and affordable healthcare services to the people of Punjab, reflecting the AAP's commitment to grassroots development.