Will contest from Chamkaur Sahib at any cost, says dropped AAP MLA Charanjit Singh

Charanjit Singh, a former member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) who won the Chamkaur Sahib assembly seat in 2022, announced that he will contest the upcoming election from the same constituency at any cost after being dropped by the party leadership. His 2022 victory was notable because he defeated former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, a senior Congress figure, by a margin of more than 7,900 votes, a result that was described as a major upset in the state’s political calculations.

The decision to remove Singh from the party’s candidate list was reportedly taken during internal deliberations ahead of the next assembly poll, prompting him to issue a public statement asserting his determination to fight the election regardless of party endorsement. He emphasized his connection with local voters and his record of service, suggesting that he will run as an independent or seek another platform if necessary. The move reflects growing tensions within AAP as it seeks to balance experienced legislators with new faces.

The development could reshape the contest in Chamkaur Sahib, where voters have previously shown willingness to support candidates who challenge established parties. Analysts suggest that Singh’s personal popularity may split the anti‑Congress vote, potentially benefiting rival candidates. The situation also highlights broader dynamics in Punjab politics, where party loyalty, candidate selection and regional issues are influencing the strategies of major parties ahead of the state elections.