AAP’s Strong Show in By-elections: Leads Ludhiana West, Visavadar, BJP Stumbles

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) emerged as a frontrunner in the by-elections for five assembly seats, leading in Punjab’s Ludhiana West and Gujarat’s Visavadar. The counting, which began at 8:00 AM, has delivered a surprising setback to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Gujarat, signaling AAP’s growing influence in key regions. These results, from polls held on June 19, could reshape local politics.

AAP’s Dominance in Ludhiana West

In Punjab, AAP’s Sanjeev Arora, a prominent businessman, holds a strong lead in Ludhiana West with a margin of over 12,000 votes after six rounds of counting. The seat, vacated after Congress MLA Bharat Bhushan’s resignation, sees AAP capitalizing on its governance record, particularly free electricity and healthcare initiatives. Voters in Ludhiana appear to favor AAP’s promise of continued development, boosting the party’s morale post its Delhi Assembly setback.

Visavadar Upset Shakes BJP

In Gujarat, AAP’s Gopal Italia, a former Patidar leader, is ahead in Visavadar by 8,500 votes, dealing a blow to the BJP in its stronghold. The seat fell vacant after the death of BJP MLA Kanu Desai. Italia’s campaign, focusing on farmer welfare and local issues, has resonated with voters, challenging the BJP’s dominance in Saurashtra. This lead marks AAP’s first significant inroad into Gujarat’s rural heartland.

Implications for Regional Politics

The by-elections, covering seats in Punjab, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka, are a litmus test ahead of state elections. AAP’s performance underscores its expanding footprint beyond Delhi, while the BJP’s Gujarat stumble raises questions about its invincibility. The Congress, trailing in most seats, faces pressure to regroup. Final results, expected by 3:00 PM IST, will clarify the extent of this shift.

A Turning Point for AAP

AAP’s early leads in Ludhiana West and Visavadar signal a potential turning point, bolstering Arvind Kejriwal’s national ambitions. As counting continues, these results highlight voter demand for change, challenging established powers and setting the stage for a dynamic political future.