Punjab Political Row Intensifies As AAP Claims Majority, Opposition Seeks Floor Test

Punjab’s political landscape has entered a phase of heightened uncertainty as competing claims over legislative strength and speculation of defections intensify ahead of a crucial Assembly session. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has asserted that the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) continues to enjoy a comfortable majority, even as opposition leaders question the government’s stability and motives behind convening the session.

Senior Congress leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa raised concerns over the timing of the Assembly session, scheduled on Labour Day, suggesting it reflects urgency within the government to demonstrate its majority. He alleged that the move could be linked to a potential confidence motion and went further to claim that, based on current political developments, the state could face President’s Rule in the coming months if instability persists.

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia also questioned the government’s numbers, alleging that the AAP may have already lost its majority in the Assembly. He cited low attendance at a recent party meeting in Jalandhar and claimed that some legislators were pressured to participate by authorities. These allegations have added to the political friction, though they remain contested by the ruling party.

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Adding to the uncertainty, reports of defections have fueled speculation about internal divisions within AAP. Claims that several MPs, including Raghav Chadha, have switched allegiance have intensified the political narrative, although no official confirmation has been provided by the party. The developments have raised questions about cohesion within the ruling ranks ahead of the Assembly session.

In response, the AAP leadership has held strategy meetings, including in Jalandhar, to consolidate support and address concerns of possible defections. Party leaders have sought to project unity and reassure legislators, aiming to counter opposition claims and maintain stability ahead of any potential floor test in the Assembly.

Chief Minister Mann has reiterated that his government has the support of 94 MLAs and expressed readiness to prove its majority on the floor of the House if required. Meanwhile, Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar has criticised the government, alleging that a possible confidence motion is a tactic to buy time. With political tensions rising, the upcoming Assembly session is expected to be a decisive moment for the state’s government.

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