Three Punjab AAP legislators switch to BJP ahead of state polls

Three Aam Aadmi Party legislators in Punjab crossed over to the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday, dealing a blow to the state government as the 2027 assembly elections approach. The switch involved Chetan Singh Jouramajra from Samana, Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra from Sanaur, and former minister Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh.

Departures And Allegations

Pathanmajra and Jouramajra stepped down from the ruling party after the group left their seats off its initial candidate list of forty names. Both submitted resignation letters directly to national convener Arvind Kejriwal, while Jouramajra also shared his exit via social media. The departing members accused Delhi-based leaders, including Kejriwal and close aide Bibhav Kumar, of interfering in state governance, and claimed the administration fell short on promises regarding corruption, crime, extortion, and drug elimination. Pathanmajra added that the national ruling party could bring benefits to Punjab and praised its stance against narcotics.

Suspension And Reactions

The AAP countered that the group faced prior suspension for anti-party activities and asked the assembly speaker to cancel their legislative memberships. Punjab chief spokesperson Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal argued that his party prioritizes state interests and acts against corruption among its own members, while accusing the opposition of welcoming leaders facing serious allegations. Meanwhile, Singh, a former police officer who led a special team probing 2015 firing incidents, resigned his assembly seat directly after facing a five-year party suspension in June.

Context

Political party defections typically increase ahead of state legislative elections as leaders evaluate their chances of securing tickets and winning seats. Regional groups often face friction between central leadership and local units when candidate lists are finalized.