Is AAP Facing a Decline in Ludhiana with Preeti Malhotra's Defection?
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Synopsis
In a surprising political shift, the AAP's Mahila Wing former leader Preeti Malhotra has joined the Shiromani Akali Dal in Ludhiana, prompting concerns over AAP's stability and governance in Punjab. With rising discontent among party members and allegations of mismanagement, the political landscape in the region is rapidly changing.
Key Takeaways
- Preeti Malhotra's defection signals growing unrest within AAP.
- Sukhbir Badal criticizes the leadership and management in Punjab.
- Concerns over financial stability and governance are rising.
- Law and order issues are becoming increasingly problematic.
- Promises made by AAP to women remain unfulfilled.
Ludhiana, June 11 (NationPress) The Shiromani Akali Dal’s campaign in the Ludhiana (West) constituency received a significant boost on Wednesday as Preeti Malhotra, the former President of the Aam Aadmi Party’s Mahila Wing, joined the party along with her supporters, in the presence of party President Sukhbir Badal.
Welcoming Preeti Malhotra, Badal pointed out that many original workers of AAP were feeling disheartened and departing, citing that outsiders had taken control of the party in Punjab. He stated, “Punjabis joined AAP to contribute to the state, but they now realize that outsiders are dominating the party and they lack any real influence.”
Badal further criticized Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for being completely sidelined, alleging that he was merely a puppet of Arvind Kejriwal. He stated that ministers were merely figureheads, with outsiders handling essential governmental functions. This situation, according to Badal, is adversely affecting the state, as government employees have yet to receive their salaries.
He warned that the financial situation of the state is likely to deteriorate in the upcoming months. “The AAP government has already borrowed Rs 1 lakh crore over the past three years, but there’s little progress in terms of development or infrastructure. Their attempts to borrow further have hit a wall due to financial mismanagement,” remarked the SAD chief.
Additionally, Badal lamented the deteriorating law and order situation. “Businesspersons are facing daily extortion threats, and social harmony is at risk, evidenced by the recent desecration of statues of Baba B.R. Ambedkar.
In her address, Preeti Malhotra expressed her disappointment over AAP’s failure to fulfill its promise of providing Rs 1,000 per month to women. She recounted being told that such promises were merely electoral strategies and not meant to be realized.
She criticized the AAP government for appointing outsiders to all key positions while neglecting to generate employment opportunities for the youth.
Point of View
The recent shift of Preeti Malhotra to the Shiromani Akali Dal from AAP reflects a growing discontent within the ranks of the latter. This situation showcases the challenges political parties face in maintaining cohesion amidst external influences. It remains to be seen how this will affect the upcoming elections in Punjab and the overall political dynamics.
NationPress
12/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Preeti Malhotra to leave AAP?
Preeti Malhotra cited dissatisfaction with AAP's failure to implement promises made to women and the party's increasing reliance on outsiders as reasons for her departure.
How has Sukhbir Badal reacted to Malhotra's joining?
Sukhbir Badal welcomed Malhotra and pointed out the demoralization among original AAP workers, attributing it to the party's leadership being overtaken by outsiders.
What are the financial concerns highlighted by Badal?
Badal mentioned that the AAP government has borrowed Rs 1 lakh crore without visible development and is facing financial mismanagement, which could worsen in the upcoming months.
