Chandigarh, Punjab News : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced renowned industrialist and social activist Rajinder Gupta as its official candidate for the Rajya Sabha by-election from Punjab. His name was unanimously approved at a meeting of the party’s Political Affairs Committee (PAC).
The party stated that Gupta’s selection was based on his experience, clean image, and long history of social service. It is being reported that the decision was made as part of a strategy to balance the social and economic sectors in the state.
Who is Rajinder Gupta?
Rajinder Gupta was formerly the Chairman of the Trident Group, a major player in the textile, paper, and chemical industries. He recently resigned from his positions as Vice Chairman of the Punjab Planning Board and Chairman of the Shri Kali Mata Mandir Managing Committee.
Gupta has been actively involved in the fields of education, health, and rural development and is considered a respected social activist in Punjab.
Decision taken as part of political strategy
According to AAP sources, the party wanted to send a Punjabi candidate to the Rajya Sabha this time who was involved in both industry and social service. It is believed that this move was taken with the 2027 Assembly elections in mind and to garner the support of industrialists and social organizations.
Why was the seat vacant?
This seat fell vacant after Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora resigned from the Rajya Sabha. He resigned from the Rajya Sabha after being elected MLA from Ludhiana West and became the Industry Minister in the Punjab government.
When will the voting take place?
Voting for the Rajya Sabha by-election will take place on October 24, 2025. The last date for filing nominations is October 13, while the last date for withdrawal is October 16.
Current AAP Rajya Sabha Members
Currently, the Aam Aadmi Party has six members in the Rajya Sabha from Punjab:
- Vikramjit Singh Sahni (industrialist)
- Balbir Singh Seechewal (environmentalist)
- Raghav Chadha (AAP leader)
- Sandeep Kumar Pathak (AAP organization)
- Harbhajan Singh (former cricketer)
- Ashok Kumar Mittal (education sector)
The announcement of Gupta’s nomination for a seat is expected to strengthen the party’s position in the industrial and public service sectors.
