Arvind Kejriwal, Bhagwant Mann rally AAP MLAs in Punjab, dismiss speculation of party rift

In a show of unity and strategy, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann met with 91 party MLAs on Tuesday, reinforcing focus on the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections and dismissing speculation of internal dissent. The meeting, held in Delhi, sent a clear message that the party’s government in Punjab remains stable despite claims by opposition leaders following AAP’s defeat in the Delhi elections.

Focus on Punjab’s Future, Not Internal Divisions

Senior AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia and Sandeep Pathak, were present as the party analyzed its performance in Delhi and discussed ways to strengthen its base in Punjab. Delhi leaders thanked their Punjab counterparts for their contributions to the campaign and emphasized the need to learn from setbacks to refine future strategies.

Mann Dismisses Congress’ Claims of AAP MLAs Switching Sides

Addressing Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa’s claim that 30 AAP MLAs were in touch with him, CM Mann dismissed it as political rhetoric. "Switching sides is Congress' culture," he remarked, adding that Bajwa has been making similar statements for years.

AAP’s Commitment to Public Welfare

Mann also reaffirmed the party’s commitment to Punjab’s development, announcing efforts to develop a new governance model for the agrarian state. He assured that AAP’s promise of Rs 1,000 monthly aid to women in Punjab would be fulfilled, though he refrained from giving a specific timeline.

Highlighting the AAP government’s welfare initiatives, Mann cited the shutdown of 17 toll plazas, bringing a daily relief of Rs 62 lakh to commuters, as an example of the administration’s commitment to public welfare. "We are committed to spending public money on the people," he emphasized.

AAP Acknowledges Delhi Defeat, Blames BJP’s Tactics

Reflecting on the Delhi poll results, CM Mann accused the BJP of using malpractices, including distributing gifts to influence voters, and noted that the AAP had to file complaints with the Election Commission every few hours. However, he stated that AAP respects the mandate of the people.

Looking Ahead

The high-level meeting comes amid heightened speculation over internal dissent within AAP's Punjab unit. However, Kejriwal and Mann’s strong messaging has reinforced that the party remains united and is already laying the groundwork for Punjab’s 2027 elections.