26-JUN-2025,11: 30 PM In a clear statement reinforcing party discipline and internal democracy, AAP leader Sanjeev Arora emphasized that the final decision regarding the allocation of Rajya Sabha seats will rest solely with the party. His statement comes amid growing political speculation about possible nominations from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as vacancies open up in the Rajya Sabha from Punjab and other states.
Arora, currently serving as a Rajya Sabha MP from Punjab, clarified that no individual leader can lay claim to any seat or candidacy, underscoring that the AAP’s internal mechanisms and leadership will take the final call.
AAP Leader Sanjeev Arora Stresses Collective Decision-Making on RS Nominations
“No Seat Belongs to Any One Leader,” Says Sanjeev Arora
Speaking to reporters during a public interaction in Ludhiana, Sanjeev Arora asserted that speculation over his potential renomination or replacement is misplaced.
“In AAP, no one lobbies for a Rajya Sabha seat. It’s the party and the leadership that evaluate performance, representation, and strategic needs before making a decision,” Arora said.
He further reiterated that whatever the party decides, he would fully abide by it. “The seat is not mine to claim or fight for. It belongs to the party. If they give me another chance, I will serve with the same dedication. If they choose someone else, I will extend my support to that nominee,” Arora added.
Background: AAP’s Growing Influence in Rajya Sabha
The Aam Aadmi Party has made notable inroads in the Rajya Sabha over the last few years, especially after its sweeping victory in the Punjab Assembly elections in 2022. With an increased number of seats in state legislatures, AAP has gained more weight in national policy debates and parliamentary proceedings.
Sanjeev Arora, an industrialist-turned-politician, was among the five AAP nominees elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Punjab in 2022. Since then, he has been active in legislative work, including issues related to MSMEs, trade reforms, and healthcare.
Who is Sanjeev Arora? From Business to Parliament
Sanjeev Arora : Businessman With a Social Mission
Before entering politics, Sanjeev Arora was known for his leadership in the textile and export sector. He is the Managing Director of Ritesh Industries Ltd. and has been credited with promoting business innovation and corporate responsibility in Punjab.
Apart from his business pursuits, Arora is also the founder of the charitable organization “Krishna Pran Breast Cancer Charitable Trust,” set up in memory of his mother, a breast cancer victim. Through this trust, he has helped hundreds of underprivileged patients with diagnosis, treatment, and awareness programs.
Role in AAP and Political Contributions
Joining the Aam Aadmi Party was a natural step for Sanjeev Arora, who said he admired the party’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen-centric governance. Since his nomination to the Rajya Sabha, he has focused on representing the voices of industrialists, small businesses, and healthcare advocates.
He has also worked to highlight Punjab’s challenges in Parliament, including declining industrial growth, environmental concerns, and drug rehabilitation.
Upcoming RS Elections: The AAP Equation in Punjab
Punjab’s Seats Under Spotlight
With upcoming Rajya Sabha vacancies, Punjab is once again at the center of political attention. AAP’s state leadership, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is expected to announce new nominations that align with the party’s evolving political roadmap.
Sanjeev Arora is one of the sitting MPs whose tenure will soon conclude, prompting curiosity about whether he will be renominated.
When asked directly about the possibility, Arora maintained humility, saying, “I’ve never asked for anything. The party found me worthy once, and if they believe I should continue, I will do my best. Otherwise, I will continue serving the people through other platforms.”
Speculation Over Fresh Faces and Strategic Appointments
Several political observers believe that AAP may use this opportunity to introduce new and high-profile candidates into the Rajya Sabha. There are talks of inducting legal experts, economists, and social activists to broaden the party’s ideological bandwidth and expertise in national policymaking.
At the same time, AAP might also choose to retain experienced voices like Sanjeev Arora, who have shown performance and loyalty during their term.
AAP’s Larger Parliamentary Strategy
Balancing State Interests With National Agenda
In his comments, Sanjeev Arora also touched upon how AAP selects its Rajya Sabha representatives. “The leadership tries to strike a balance between representing the aspirations of the state and contributing meaningfully to national discussions,” he said.
He praised Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann for building a party where merit and contribution matter more than connections or lineage.
Rajya Sabha As a Platform for Policy Advocacy
Over the last two years, Sanjeev Arora has spoken in Parliament on a wide range of issues, including healthcare infrastructure, entrepreneurial reforms, and skill development. He was also part of various parliamentary committees and has submitted detailed questions and interventions on the floor of the House.
For Arora, the Rajya Sabha is not just a legislative chamber but also a platform to shape meaningful policy discussions that affect millions.
Conclusion: AAP’s Democratic Culture on Display
The statement by Sanjeev Arora that “the party will choose the Rajya Sabha seat” underlines the culture of collective decision-making that AAP seeks to promote. It also reflects his personal humility and political maturity.
In a landscape often dominated by backroom lobbying and power struggles, Arora’s approach is a refreshing reminder of public service driven by party ideals and people’s priorities.
As AAP navigates its next round of parliamentary nominations, it will be interesting to see whether it continues to bet on experienced performers like Sanjeev Arora or infuse fresh talent into the Upper House. Either way, Arora’s statement has set the tone for a respectful and process-driven approach.
Sourcce : ANI