The Fall of AAP in Delhi
For a decade, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ruled Delhi, defying political odds and emerging as a formidable force in Indian politics. However, the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections marked a turning point, as the party suffered a shocking defeat, securing only 22 seats in the 70-member House. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), after a 27-year hiatus, made a strong comeback, reclaiming power and effectively ending AAP’s dominance in the capital.
The downfall of AAP in Delhi was not an overnight event but the result of growing dissatisfaction among voters. Multiple factors contributed to the party’s decline, including accusations of corruption, governance concerns, and the alienation of traditional voter bases. Many of AAP’s heavyweights lost their seats, signaling a clear mandate for change. The internal strife within the party, which had been bubbling under the surface for years, now appears to be coming to a head.
Political Turmoil in AAP: Splits and Speculations
The aftermath of AAP’s loss in Delhi has sparked widespread speculation regarding its future. Punjab Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa has claimed that AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal could contest the Rajya Sabha elections from Punjab. Bajwa further asserted that several AAP MLAs in Punjab are contemplating switching sides, indicating a deepening crisis within the party.
While Punjab remains AAP’s only stronghold, its grip on power appears shaky. Bajwa alleged that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has lost control over both the government and the party. “AAP MLAs are in touch with me. What Bhagwant Mann says has no meaning, as nobody is with him,” Bajwa claimed, hinting at possible defections.
In response, Mann dismissed Bajwa’s assertions as baseless, accusing the Congress leader of making sensational claims to grab media attention. “They do not have contact with their own MLAs, but they talk about being in touch with ours,” Mann retorted in the Punjab Assembly.
Is Kejriwal Planning His Next Move?
Amid the political upheaval, AAP’s recent decision to field its Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora in an assembly bypoll has fueled speculation that Kejriwal may seek entry into the Upper House. On Wednesday, AAP nominated Arora for the Ludhiana West Assembly bypoll, sparking rumors about Kejriwal’s possible entry into Parliament. However, shortly after the announcement, the party dismissed these speculations, stating that the 56-year-old former Delhi Chief Minister would not be heading to Rajya Sabha.
If this move materializes, it would signify a strategic shift for Kejriwal, allowing him to maintain political relevance despite AAP’s electoral setback. It would also indicate that Kejriwal sees Punjab as the party’s last bastion, where he can consolidate support and prepare for future battles.
The Road Ahead for AAP
The coming months will be critical for AAP as it navigates internal rifts and external challenges. Losing Delhi was a major blow, and retaining Punjab will be its next big test. If defections occur, as Bajwa has suggested, AAP’s stability in Punjab could be jeopardized, potentially paving the way for a realignment of political forces in the state.
For Arvind Kejriwal, the rumoured Rajya Sabha move may offer a temporary refuge, but questions about AAP’s long-term strategy and survival remain. Will he rebuild the party from Punjab, or is this the beginning of the end for AAP’s once-promising political journey? Only time will tell.
(With inputs from agencies)
