The political activity in Gujarat is heating up, with AAP convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann arriving on a two-day visit. Gujarat goes to polls later this year, even as there are rumours that the polls could be advanced so that the BJP can reap the benefits of the recently concluded elections in five states.
AAP has decided to contest on all the 182 assembly seats.
Kejriwal and Mann’s maiden visit to Gujarat is significant considering the state has traditionally witnessed a direct fight between the Congress and the BJP. The BJP has been in power in Gujarat for over two and a half decades.
AAP had put up a good show in the last civic elections, especially in Surat, winning 27 seats. Congress drew a blank in Surat.
Gujarat’s AAP spokesperson Yogesh Jadvani told THE WEEK that Kejriwal has been listening to the woes of Gujaratis from various walks of life. Jadvani said that, like in Punjab, people of Gujarat are waiting to give a third party a chance, for they have seen the “rule” of Gujarat and the “failure” of opposition over the years.
On Saturday, Kejriwal will visit the Gandhi Ashram. He will also take part in the Triranga Yatra, which is to be held in several parts of the state.
He would leave Gujarat on Sunday and the programmes have been planned in such a manner that he can meet prominent citizens.
There is also a remote possibility of Kejriwal addressing a press conference.
On Friday, AAP leaders met the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner and requested that proper security cover be given to the Delhi chief minister, especially after attack on his house in capital recently.
AAP leaders claimed that they foresee an attack in Gujarat by the “goons of the BJP”. They requested that certain people be detained before Kejriwal comes to Gujarat.
