Since the recent downturn for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Delhi Assembly elections, party leader Arvind Kejriwal has notably been absent from public events. Last seen on February 23 at a party legislative meeting where Atishi was appointed as the leader of the opposition, Kejriwal’s absence has sparked speculation regarding his next political move.
Rumors are circulating that Kejriwal may pursue a seat in the Rajya Sabha from Punjab, especially after the AAP revealed that its current Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjeev Arora, will contest in the Ludhiana West bypoll. Critics from rival parties, including Congress and the BJP, suggested this move could be a strategic plan for Kejriwal to enter the upper house of Parliament.
The AAP has quickly dismissed these speculations and denied any possibility of Kejriwal becoming the Chief Minister of Punjab. Despite the suspension of 21 AAP MLAs from the Assembly over the controversial liquor policy report, Kejriwal has remained silent amid the political turbulence.
High-level sources indicate that Kejriwal is gearing up for the next Assembly elections, primarily focusing on strengthening AAP’s presence in Punjab—its only governing state. The party has currently shelved plans to contest elections in other states, opting instead to concentrate efforts on the forthcoming Ludhiana West bypoll and preparations for the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.
Kejriwal’s routine reportedly includes regular meetings with crucial party leaders in Punjab and gathering feedback from grassroots workers. Recent gatherings at his residence have involved discussions with Punjab leaders to reinforce the party’s organizational strength and governance model, especially after setbacks in Delhi.
Meanwhile, former Deputy Chief Minister and senior leader Manish Sisodia has committed to visiting schools across Punjab, as the state government advances the reform of government schools based on the successful ‘Delhi model’ championed by AAP.
In a broader effort, Punjab has intensified its campaign against drugs and corruption, with police actions, including the use of bulldozers against drug lords, reflecting a determined crackdown. Additionally, significant bureaucratic changes have been enacted in the state.
While Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will continue to represent the party publicly, organizational control will be consolidated under Kejriwal as he navigates internal party dynamics and reports of infighting. Though he may not be present at public functions, Kejriwal is actively engaged in strategizing for AAP’s next electoral challenge.
