The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has officially declared its disengagement from the INDIA bloc, stating that the alliance was formed specifically for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This decision marks a significant shift in the political landscape and raises questions about the future of opposition unity in India.
According to AAP leader Anurag Dhanda, the party will now focus on contesting upcoming Assembly elections independently in states such as Bihar, Assam, and Gujarat. Dhanda emphasized that AAP is not currently part of any alliance and intends to build on its own strengths following the Lok Sabha elections. He stated, "That (alliance with INDIA bloc parties) was for the Lok Sabha elections. We are not a part of any bloc now."
This announcement is the first definitive statement from AAP regarding its stance on the INDIA bloc since the conclusion of the 2024 parliamentary polls and its defeat in the Delhi assembly elections. Previously, INDIA bloc parties had maintained close collaboration on floor strategy in Parliament. However, recent concerns about the bloc's future, such as those voiced by former finance minister P. Chidambaram, suggest underlying tensions within the alliance.
AAP is now reportedly concentrating on restructuring its organization and preparing to contest Assembly elections in several states. Sources indicate that the party has categorized states into 'A' and 'B' categories. Category A states, which include Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Assam, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Delhi, and Goa, will see active involvement from AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal in high-stakes contests. Category B states will be managed by local leadership.
The decision to contest independently in Bihar is particularly noteworthy, as it is a state where other INDIA bloc parties, such as RJD and Congress, typically form alliances. AAP's Bihar in-charge, Ajesh Yadav, stated that the party is committed to building its organization at the grassroots level and is currently conducting a seven-phase "yatra" across the state to connect with the public.
Several factors may have contributed to AAP's decision to disengage from the INDIA bloc. The party's performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was mixed, with a complete shutout in Delhi and a limited success in Punjab. AAP's alliance with Congress in Delhi for the Lok Sabha polls was viewed critically by some within the Congress party, with some functionaries calling it an "unholy alliance". There were concerns that aligning with AAP could be seen as providing a "clean chit" to the party despite existing corruption allegations.
Moreover, historical tensions and conflicting interests between AAP and Congress in various states may have played a role. In Delhi, AAP has accused Congress of working with the BJP to undermine its prospects in upcoming Assembly polls. AAP leaders have criticized Congress for targeting AAP instead of focusing on the BJP, alleging that Congress candidates seem to be receiving support from the BJP.
Looking ahead, AAP's strategy involves focusing on states where it believes it has the potential to emerge as a significant player. In Punjab, where it currently holds power, the party aims to strengthen its "Punjab Model" in health and education. In other states, AAP seeks to replace Congress as the primary opposition force. AAP's national expansion plans may face challenges, particularly in states where it has historically struggled to gain traction. The party's leadership will need to carefully assess the political dynamics in each state and tailor its strategies accordingly.
