Lok Sabha Elections 2024: In a significant development, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, a key leader of the INDIA bloc partner Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), hinted at the partys inclination to go solo in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Punjab. This revelation comes amidst ongoing discussions about seat-sharing arrangements among INDIA bloc partners ahead of the 2024 parliamentary elections.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Punjab CMs optimistic projectionExpressing confidence in the AAPs prospects, Bhagwant Mann declared that the party aims to secure victory in all 13 parliamentary seats in the state. Addressing journalists, he highlighted the governments commendable efforts towards public welfare, anticipating continued support from the masses.“Punjab will emerge as a lighthouse by giving all the 13 seats of Lok Sabha to them [the AAP] in the coming general polls,” stated Mr. Mann, envisioning a historic 13-0 outcome in favour of the AAP. He emphasized that such a result would signify an endorsement of the state governments pro-people policies while condemning the opposition for their perceived anti-Punjab stance.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Strategic move amid local collaborationsThe Chief Ministers assertion of contesting all 13 parliamentary seats independently comes at a juncture when the AAP and the Congress have formed an alliance for the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation mayoral elections scheduled for January 18. The alliance outlines the Congresss participation in the Senior Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayor roles, with the AAP vying for the Mayors post.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Criticism aimed at Navjot Singh SidhuTaking a swipe at Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, Chief Minister Mann referred to him as a fugitive who shirked responsibilities during his tenure as Power Minister. The criticism comes in the wake of Mr. Sidhu questioning the AAP governments decision to acquire a private thermal power plant.Mr. Sidhu, expressing concern over the financial implications of the power plant acquisition, stated, “Punjab needs sustainable financial decisions, not impulsive acquisitions that deepen its debt woes. The Goindwal Power Plant, far from being an asset, seems like a white elephant and a liability for the States already strained finances.”Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Internal dissent within Congress The AAPs potential solo venture in Punjab faces opposition from within the Congress, particularly from prominent leaders like the Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa. Critics within the Congress have consistently urged the partys central leadership to reconsider the alliance with the AAP in Punjab.
