Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is likely to nominate prominent businessman Rajinder Gupta for the upcoming Rajya Sabha by-election in Punjab, party sources indicated on Sunday. The election, set for October 24, comes in the wake of Sanjeev Arora’s resignation from the Upper House following his election as an MLA.
Gupta, who heads the Trident Group as its chairman emeritus, has recently stepped down from two significant roles in the state — as vice-chairman of the Punjab State Economic Policy and Planning Board, and as head of the Kali Devi temple advisory committee. His exit from these posts has triggered speculation about his potential elevation to the national political stage.
Sanjeev Arora’s term in the Rajya Sabha was to run until April 2028, but his induction into the Punjab Cabinet after winning a seat in the Assembly led to a mid-term vacancy. With AAP holding a comfortable majority in the Vidhan Sabha, the party’s nominee is expected to win the bypoll with ease.
Gupta’s possible entry into the Rajya Sabha is being seen as part of AAP’s strategy to bring experienced voices from industry into policymaking roles. Known for his contributions to Punjab’s textile and manufacturing sectors, Gupta has long maintained close ties with the state government and has been involved in advisory and development roles.
While a formal announcement from the party is awaited, insiders say Gupta’s nomination is almost certain unless there is a last-minute change in plan.
