AAP, SAD candidates cancel meetings as mark of respect

Paying respect to the Indian defence forces after the success of Operation Sindoor, the candidates of AAP and SAD have decided to hold back all engagements.

In a display of patriotism and unity, Member of Parliament Sanjeev Arora, Aam Aadmi Party’s candidate from the Ludhiana (West) Assembly constituency, described the operation as a fitting tribute to the brave lives lost in the recent Pahalgam massacre. He lauded the courage and precision of India’s defence personnel. “It is a moment for all Indians to stand as one,” he said, adding that, “We owe an eternal debt of gratitude to our armed forces who have not only responded with strength, but also restored our collective sense of justice and pride.”

In his statement here on Wednesday, Arora emphasised that national interest must rise above all political or electoral considerations. In acknowledgment of the country’s solemn mood, Arora announced a complete halt to all ongoing political campaign activities under his leadership in the Ludhiana (West) constituency.

“We stand united with the nation and our armed forces,” he stated. “This is not the time for rallies or speeches, but for unity. Every Indian heart beats with the bravery shown in Operation Sindoor. Today, it is our duty to prioritise the country over poll campaigns.” The decision to suspend campaigning comes as the political climate in Punjab and across India reverberates with the news of India’s swift and bold response to cross-border terrorism. Leaders across party lines are being urged to show solidarity with the nation and refrain from politicising national security matters.

Voicing similar views SAD candidate Paropkar Singh Ghuman said that the Pahalgam attack was uncalled for and Indian forces have given a much needed befitting reply to terrorism. He said that his programmes were to start from 6 am today, but he did not go anywhere and apologised to the organisers.

He said for him nation came first and everything else could wait. He said that many of his relatives had already served in the armed forces. “I salute to the forces. We will follow the instructions of the Indian Government at any cost,” said Ghuman.

Ludhiana