The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has clinched a decisive victory in the high-stakes Ludhiana West by-election, with its candidate Sanjeev Arora securing 35,179 votes, defeating Congress’ Bharat Bhushan Ashu, who managed 24,542 votes. The result marks a significant boost for AAP as it eyes a broader presence in Punjab ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
The bypoll, followed by the demise of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi, turned into a political battleground with major parties — AAP, Congress, BJP, and SAD — fighting for dominance in the urban stronghold. From the early rounds of counting, Arora maintained a consistent lead, which widened to over 10,000 votes by the 13th round, sealing his win.
Speaking to the media following his victory, Sanjeev Arora, an industrialist and Rajya Sabha MP, said: “I want to thank the people of Ludhiana. This win is dedicated to them — they made this victory possible. I also thank all my opponents who fought against me.”
With Bharat Bhushan Ashu finishing second and BJP’s Jiwan Gupta and SAD’s Parupkar Singh Ghuman trailing with 12,764 and 4,347 votes respectively, the bypoll is being treated as a litmus test ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political observers see this win as a validation of AAP’s strategy in Punjab and a signal of public support for the party’s governance model. Arora’s victory could also potentially pave the way for AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal’s entry into the Rajya Sabha.
The Ludhiana West seat became a focal point in Punjab politics following the vacancy left by Gurpreet Gogi’s demise. AAP fielded Sanjeev Arora, a key figure in its Punjab campaign, while Congress banked on former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, known for his strong local support base.
Sanjeev Arora, who is an industrialist and Rajya Sabha MP, represented AAP’s strategic push in Punjab. “I’ve done my part with sincerity and respect. Now it’s in the hands of the voters. Whatever the outcome, I remain committed to Ludhiana’s development,” he had said in the morning.
Congress was aiming to reclaim lost ground by fielding former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, relying on his experience and loyal voter base. “We’ve run a clean, people-centric campaign. I trust the voters will choose experience and accountability,” he had stated.
BJP, encouraged by its growing urban support, nominated businessman Jiwan Gupta to tap into the trader community. “The BJP’s national performance has inspired confidence. Ludhiana’s people recognise that. We’ve connected on real issues like industry and governance,” said Gupta.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) candidate Parupkar Singh Ghuman focused on grassroots outreach and hoped to use this election to signal a revival. “I’m ready for whatever the outcome may be, with full faith in the democratic process,” he had shared earlier0000.
Security and Celebration
Tight security arrangements were in place for the counting day. SP D.K. Chaudhary confirmed a three-tier security system, with over 450 police personnel deployed from early morning to ensure peaceful counting. Only authorised personnel were allowed entry into the counting centres.
As the results became clear, celebrations erupted at AAP’s local office, with supporters dancing, waving party flags, and distributing sweets. The party hailed the result as a “people’s mandate” for transparent and development-driven governance.
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