Elections to the Urban Bodies in Punjab have delivered a mixed bag, with the AAP ahead to some extent, which is usual for a ruling party. The results are indicative of the political situation in the state. It is clear that the Congress is the main opposition, with the BJP having a hold in certain pockets. The big loser, of course, is the Shiromani Akali Dal, which at one time was the dominant force. The break-up between BJP and SAD has cost them both. It is a lesson that alliances have to be based on long-term perspectives – the ‘vote-bank’ should not be the only concern. The failure of the SAD leadership to place the farmers’ long-term interests first when the farm laws were being discussed revealed its opportunism. The party ended up being loyal to none.
The same challenge faces AAP and the Congress, which are part of the INDI Alliance at the national level. Both compete for the same section of voters. That the Congress has held its own in certain cities should be a morale-booster for its leadership, and a serious worry for AAP. This will lead to adoption of a harder line at the national level on making concessions elsewhere, particularly as regards the coming assembly elections in Delhi.
Credit also must go to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann for having managed to retain his party’s hold over its votebank despite the many troubles the state faces. Keeping the controversial Arvind Kejriwal in the background even while supporting him as party convenor has proven a winning gambit. Unfortunately, Delhi CM Atishi has not had enough time to develop an independent image. If AAP’s usual freebie strategy does not pull in the votes, Kejriwal’s future as party leader will be jeopardised.
If AAP and Congress were to tie up for the coming elections in Delhi, the chances of victory would be greatly enhanced. On the other hand, if AAP manages to retain its hold, it could mean the end of what’s left of the Congress in the state. What’s the right strategy for the future of the INDI Alliance? Which is a more suitable adversary for AAP in the long run – the Congress or BJP? Its advantage is that people wish to retain a third option, as the Congress has more or less faded as a viable ideology. This is the decision the Delhi voters will be taking.
