AAP secured a decisive victory in the by-election of Tarn Taran, sparking celebratory scenes across Punjab, as senior leader Anurag Dhanda congratulated Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, candidate Harmeet Singh Sandhu, and thousands of party workers for what he described as “a historic mandate in favour of Good Governance”.
Dhanda, known for his keen political observation and his organising role within the Aam Aadmi Party organisation, stated that the results spoke for themselves: the people of Punjab have “clearly stamped their approval on the work of the Mann government.” He viewed the verdict as a reassertion of AAP’s connection to its grassroots roots and its intention of a people-centred governance model.
AAP’s Victory is a Clear Indication of Strong Support from the Public
The Tarn Taran by-election was closely tracked, especially following months of political turmoil between AAP and the opposition parties, with Harmeet Singh Sandhu’s significant victory signalling a sweeping mandate in favour of the AAP model of administration, and rival candidates from the Congress and BJP reportedly lost deposits.
Dhanda noted the people accepted his framing of the Mann victory as a gratifying moment – even accepting mind-boggling initiatives ranging from cheaper electricity for the villages and shocking renovations in schools to transformed mohalla clinics, improved governance, and action against within mafias.
“This victory is not merely a positive seat outcome; it is a message,” said Dhanda. “People want integrity in government, a leader who is connected and approachable, and visible development; all three of these things have happened under the Mann government.”
Opposition in a Bind
For opposition parties, it was a very difficult evening. For leaders in the Congress and the BJP, it was difficult to make sense of why their showing in a district long considered a base for both of their parties had been so lacklustre. Analysts say the types of disconnections that occurred with their parties and the community in an area where they have little connection, and the sustained outreach by AAP helped set the stage for the outcome.
Numerous political observers also mentioned that the bypoll reflects a larger political change in Punjab – one that favours newer styles of leadership, accountability, and transparency.
Dhanda Thanks Party Workers and Mann
In his impassioned message, Anurag Dhanda stated that the work of AAP’s booth-level volunteer workers or those stationed at polling booths “never disconnected from people (they) listen to people’s issues and represent parts of the party’s growth in popularity.” He then noted the work of CM Bhagwant Mann who, he asserted, campaigned across the constituency leaving behind “an image of simplicity, sincerity and clarity.” Dhanda concluded by saying the outcome of the election gives AAP good political will heading into additional political contests, building their standing in rural and border districts like Tarn Taran.
