How Does Visavadar’s Win Show Growing Trust in AAP? Kejriwal in Gujarat

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- AAP's victory in Visavadar signals a shift in public sentiment.
- Grassroots mobilization is a key focus for AAP as they prepare for upcoming elections.
- Internal party discipline remains critical, as seen with recent suspensions.
- Youth engagement is central to AAP's strategy in Gujarat.
- The bypoll win boosts AAP's presence in the 182-member assembly.
Ahmedabad, July 3 (NationPress) National Convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Arvind Kejriwal, has initiated an assertive membership drive in Gujarat during his two-day visit, aiming to build on the momentum generated from AAP’s recent bypoll triumph in Visavadar.
Unveiling the 'Gujarat Jodo Sadasyata Abhiyan', Kejriwal encouraged the youth to join the party and participate in what he described as a “havan” for the state’s progress.
“Grant us just two years. The BJP has governed Gujarat for 30 years and led it to ruin. Join AAP to transform Gujarat’s destiny,” he stated, providing a contact number (9512040404) for those interested in enrolling.
Kejriwal asserted that the victory in Visavadar is indicative of a rising trust in AAP and marks a pivotal shift in Gujarat.
He also criticized both the BJP and Congress, referring to them as “lovers” and declaring, “We no longer have an alliance.”
AAP has commenced grassroots engagement, with volunteers prepared to canvass door-to-door throughout Gujarat to broaden the party's reach ahead of the forthcoming assembly elections.
In the meantime, the internal discipline of the party was also highlighted, as Gujarat state president Yesudan Gadhvi announced the suspension of MLA Umesh Makwana following grievances, while Gariyadhar MLA Sudhir Vaghani allegedly met Kejriwal in Surat for “social work.”
AAP’s Gopal Italia achieved a significant victory in the Visavadar by-election, garnering 75,942 votes and defeating BJP’s Kirit Patel by a margin of 17,554 votes—a seat the BJP had not won since 2007.
With approximately 56.8 percent voter turnout, this victory enabled AAP to reclaim a seat previously held by Bhupendra Bhayani, who resigned late in 2023 after transitioning to the BJP.
This win not only elevates AAP’s total to five seats in the 182-member Gujarat assembly but also reinforces the party’s increasing popularity in the state as the elections approach.
Since capturing five seats in the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections, AAP has concentrated on grassroots mobilization, governance-oriented campaigning, and outreach to the youth.