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AAP protests in Punjab over RS member Rajinder Gupta’s switch to BJP
AAP workers in Ludhiana's Kitchlu Nagar protested Rajinder Gupta’s move to join the BJP, alleging it betrayed Punjab’s interests. The demonstration featured party leaders, volunteers, and placards, with police deployed to maintain order. The BJP criticized the protests as a sign of frustration.
Why It Matters
The event highlights political realignment within Punjab and public sentiment surrounding a sitting RS member's switch to another party, illustrating tensions between state-level leaders and national party dynamics.
Timeline
2 Events
BJP criticizes protests; calls AAP internal frustration
April 26, 2026
Anil Sarin, general secretary of BJP’s Punjab unit, flayed the protests, saying the AAP should introspect why a large number of its leaders and activists, including founding members, are deserting it. He described the protests against the MPs as a clear sign of frustration amongst AAP and urged the administration to take strict action against those involved in vandalism to maintain law and order in the city.
AAP protest in Kitchlu Nagar against Rajinder Gupta’s switch to BJP
April 26, 2026
Workers of the Aam Aadmi Party staged a protest in Kitchlu Nagar against Rajya Sabha member Rajinder Gupta for joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), terming his move a betrayal of Punjab’s interests. Protesters carried placards, raised slogans condemning the decision, and accused him of betraying the trust reposed in him by the party and the people of Punjab. The protest was led by Atam Nagar MLA Kulwant Singh Sidhu, South constituency MLA Rajinderpal Kaur Chhina, and Ludhiana Urban president Jatinder Khangura, among others. Several party leaders and volunteers, including Ravinder Pal Singh Pali, Ajinder Pal Kaur, Amarinder Singh Jawaddi, Raju Kanaujia, Nikki Kohli, Pradeep Appu, Davinder Ghumman and others, were present. Police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order.