Punjab CM Seeks Official Space for AAP Office in Chandigarh, Announces Cabinet Expansion

Chandigarh, June 24, 2025 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday met Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to formally request allotment of office space in Chandigarh for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), citing the party’s national status and recent electoral successes.

Addressing the media after the meeting at Raj Bhavan, CM Mann emphasized that AAP has fulfilled all legal requirements for a party office in the Union Territory, just like the Congress, BJP, and Shiromani Akali Dal, which already have established offices there. “We are a national party with MLAs in states like Goa and Gujarat. We recently won the Ludhiana West bypoll. Yet, we don’t have an office in Chandigarh,” said Mann. “It’s a matter of fairness and recognition.”

Mann confirmed that a formal letter had been submitted to the Governor, requesting space for AAP’s party office in Chandigarh.

Speaking further, Mann announced that Ludhiana West MLA Sanjeev Arora, who recently won the by-election, would be inducted into the cabinet within the next few days. “This is a promise we made during the campaign, and we will fulfill it,” he affirmed.

Highlighting the party’s recent electoral victories, Mann said a celebration would be held in Delhi with senior AAP leaders, including Sanjeev Arora and Gujarat leader Gopal Italia. He attributed these wins to public faith in AAP’s governance and the tireless work of party workers.

Turning to policy, Mann spoke about proactive steps to support Punjab’s farmers, including revising the paddy transplantation calendar to conserve soil moisture and ensure timely procurement. He cited improved electricity supply and canal irrigation as key support systems currently in place.

CM Mann also targeted opposition parties during his press interaction. He criticized the Congress for internal disunity and accused the Shiromani Akali Dal of political irrelevance. “Congress continues to suffer from factionalism. As for the Akali Dal, they are being repeatedly rejected by voters. Their candidates are losing deposits. They must reflect on their future role in Punjab politics,” Mann stated.

The request for office space marks another chapter in AAP’s growing push to solidify its position as a national political force, while the party’s governance in Punjab continues to shape regional dynamics.