In a significant development, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, has revealed its candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled for 2024. The announcement, which took place during a press conference, underscores the party’s strategic approach and its focus on key constituencies in Delhi and Haryana.
Delhi Candidates Unveiled
The AAP’s selection for the Lok Sabha election candidates in Delhi includes notable names aimed at challenging the incumbent political landscape:
- East Delhi: Kuldeep Kumar
- New Delhi: Somnath Bharti, MLA representing Malviya Nagar
- South Delhi: Sahiram Pehalwan, MLA from Tughlaqabad
- West Delhi: Mahabal Mishra
For the state of Haryana, the AAP has put forward:
- Kurukshetra: Sushil Gupta
Merit-Based Selection Process
During the press conference, Delhi Minister and AAP leader Gopal Rai emphasized the party’s commitment to selecting candidates based on their proven track record of work. This underscores AAP’s dedication to meritocracy and highlights its departure from traditional caste-based politics.
Ending Caste Politics
Atishi, another prominent AAP leader and Delhi Minister stressed the party’s decision to field candidates based on their work rather than caste. By nominating Kuldeep Kumar from East Delhi, the AAP signals a departure from divisive caste-based politics, focusing instead on the candidate’s capabilities and achievements.
Criteria for Candidate Selection
Gopal Rai reiterated the party’s criteria for selecting candidates, emphasizing the importance of leaders who are deeply connected to the grassroots, actively engage with the public, and demonstrate a commitment to serving the people.
Seat-Share Agreements and Alliances
The AAP has solidified seat-share agreements with the Congress party within the INDIA bloc for various states, including Delhi, Gujarat, Goa, and Haryana. However, the two parties will contest independently in Punjab due to unique political dynamics in the state.
Delhi Seat Distribution
In Delhi, the AAP aims to contest four out of seven seats, challenging the current dominance of the BJP. This strategic allocation of seats underscores the AAP’s ambition to expand its presence in the national political landscape.
Party’s Preparations for Elections
The unveiling of Lok Sabha candidates follows a thorough discussion and finalization process within the AAP’s Political Affairs Committee. With candidates announced for Assam, Gujarat, and now Delhi and Haryana, the AAP is gearing up for a competitive electoral season, aiming to make significant strides in the national political arena.
-Prisha Jaiswal