The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which suffered a setback in the 2022 Lok Sabha byelection in Sangrur, a constituency once considered its bastion, is now facing an uphill battle to reclaim its stronghold. The party’s loss to Simranjit Singh Mann of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) has raised concerns about AAP’s ability to retain its support in the 2024 general election.
Residents of Sangrur, the home turf of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, express mixed feelings about the AAP government’s performance. While some acknowledge improvements in electricity supply, others remain disappointed with unmet promises. Ram Kumar, a tea stall owner in Sehna village, laments the lack of new Aam Aadmi clinics, despite the government’s pledge to establish them. He believes the government has merely repurposed existing health centers, failing to provide the promised accessible healthcare.
Kulwinder Singh, a farmer, expresses satisfaction with the uninterrupted electricity supply but emphasizes the need for the government to fulfill other commitments, particularly regarding MSP for crops. He highlights the growing anti-incumbency sentiment against both the BJP at the national level and the AAP in Punjab.
Chief Minister Mann’s promise to increase the monthly financial assistance provided to women from ₹1,000 to ₹1,100 has raised skepticism among some residents. Kartar Kaur, a 65-year-old woman from Bimber village, expresses doubt, citing the delay in providing the initial promised amount of ₹1,000. She believes political parties often fail to keep their pre-poll promises once in power.
Harpreet Kaur, an assistant professor in Sangrur, questions the government’s progress in combating the drug menace, which continues to grip the youth of the region. She wonders what concrete steps have been taken to address this pressing issue.
Swaranjit Singh, a social activist from Sangrur, hopes that the government will prioritize the interests of the people and address the numerous problems plaguing the city. He emphasizes the need to eradicate corruption and bring about visible change on the ground, as promised by the AAP.
As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, the AAP faces the challenge of regaining the trust of Sangrur residents. Fulfilling unmet promises and delivering on its commitments will be crucial for the party’s success in retaining its stronghold and emerging victorious in the upcoming polls.
