Kejriwal meets Punjab MLAs: Damage control or strategy session after Delhi drubbing dissent rumours?

New Delhi: Following a crushing defeat in Delhi, AAP leaders put on a united front, with Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann refuting rumors of internal conflict after meeting with Arvind Kejriwal.

Kapurthala House Huddle: AAP Leaders Strategize

Amidst speculation of a rift within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) following their poor performance in the Delhi assembly elections, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met with party chief Arvind Kejriwal and other key leaders at Kapurthala House in Delhi. The meeting aimed to dissect the Delhi poll results and strategize for upcoming elections, particularly in Punjab. The gathering, attended by Punjab ministers and MLAs, served as a platform to dispel rumors of internal discontent within the AAP’s Punjab unit.

Mann Dismisses Congress Claims, Pushes Punjab Model

Bhagwant Mann vehemently dismissed claims made by Punjab Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa that over 30 AAP MLAs were in contact with Congress and considering switching sides. Mann retorted by questioning the Congress's presence in Delhi, where they haven't secured a single seat since 2015. He emphasized the dedication of AAP leaders, stating that the party was built "with our sweat and blood". Mann also asserted that Punjab would be presented as a model state of development for the entire country.

BJP Pounces: "Countdown Has Begun"

While AAP leaders put on a united front, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seized the opportunity to attack. BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh claimed that the "countdown for the fall of the AAP government in Punjab has begun". Chugh argued that the AAP's state unit is a "house of cards" that will collapse soon, especially since the "Delhi model," which the Bhagwant Mann government aimed to implement in Punjab, was rejected by Delhi voters.

AAP Determined: Eyes on Punjab

Despite the setback in Delhi and the BJP's attacks, AAP leaders appear determined to maintain their hold on Punjab, which remains the only state governed by the party. Mann's strong dismissal of dissent claims and his emphasis on Punjab's development suggest that AAP is focused on consolidating its position and showcasing its governance model in the state. As political tensions rise, the coming months will reveal whether AAP can maintain its unity and deliver on its promises in Punjab.