Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann announces former MLA Harmit Singh Sandhu as AAP’s candidate for the Tarn Taran by-election, highlighting his strong rural connect and leadership.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has officially announced the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate for the upcoming Tarn Taran Assembly by-election. Former three-time MLA Harmit Singh Sandhu has been selected to contest from the seat, which fell vacant after the demise of AAP MLA Kashmir Singh Sohal in June 2025.
While the Election Commission has yet to declare the official date for the bypoll, AAP has moved swiftly in its strategy by naming a strong local face as its candidate.
CM Bhagwant Mann Declares Sandhu as “People’s Choice”
Speaking at a public gathering held for the inauguration of Rural Link Road Development Projects in Tarn Taran, CM Bhagwant Mann introduced Harmit Singh Sandhu as the AAP’s candidate. “Sandhu is your choice. He knows your problems and has been part of your journey for decades,” Mann told the crowd, receiving a positive response from local supporters.
Sandhu’s Political Journey: From Independent to AAP Leader
Harmit Singh Sandhu is a seasoned politician with a deep-rooted presence in Tarn Taran. He was elected as an Independent candidate in 2002, followed by victories on a Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) ticket in 2007 and 2012. However, he faced defeats in both the 2017 and 2022 elections.
In July 2025, Sandhu joined the Aam Aadmi Party, resigning from SAD in 2024. Since then, he has been serving as the AAP Tarn Taran district in-charge. His entry into AAP was welcomed by CM Bhagwant Mann and senior leader Manish Sisodia, reflecting the party’s intent to strengthen its rural and panthic base in Punjab.
Stronghold on Rural and Agricultural Issues
Sandhu is considered one of the prominent Panthic faces of Tarn Taran and is known for his grassroots connect, especially on agricultural and rural development issues. His lineage ties him to the family of former MP Surinder Singh Kairon, adding historical and political credibility to his candidacy.
AAP’s decision to field Sandhu is seen as a strategic move to counter opposition narratives and leverage his local influence to retain the seat.
Internal Dissent and Political Dynamics
While Sandhu’s appointment has energized many party workers, it has also sparked some dissent among local AAP leaders, especially those who were eyeing a ticket. However, party insiders suggest that his strong voter base and past electoral record made him the most viable candidate.
This by-election marks AAP’s seventh bypoll battle in Punjab since forming the government in 2022, reflecting the party’s growing experience and evolving strategies in state politics.
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