Setback for Congress in Qadian; Thakur Balraj Singh joins AAP
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 15, 2026: The Congress suffered a setback in Punjab’s Qadian Assembly constituency on Wednesday as senior leader Thakur Balraj Singh, a three-time Zila Parishad member, joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the presence of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann during a public rally in Mukerian.
Thakur Balraj Singh has previously served as Block Samiti Chairman and Chairman of the Land Mortgage Bank, and is considered an influential political figure in the Qadian region.
Welcoming him into the party, Chief Minister Mann said AAP remains open to honest and grassroots leaders committed to public service.
“The Aam Aadmi Party welcomes leaders who have worked among the people and are dedicated to Punjab’s development. Such leaders are the true strength of any political organisation,” Mann said, assuring Balraj Singh of due respect and recognition within the party.
AAP’s Qadian Halqa In-charge Guriqbal Singh Mahal said Balraj Singh enjoys a strong political base in the constituency and commands significant support among the Thakur community.
“His joining will further strengthen the Aam Aadmi Party in Qadian. Together, we will work for the development of the constituency and serve the people with greater commitment,” Mahal said.
After joining AAP, Thakur Balraj Singh said he had remained with the Congress for many years but had become disillusioned by the party’s internal factionalism and infighting.
“I have been impressed by the people-centric policies of the Aam Aadmi Party and the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. His vision for Punjab’s development inspired me to join the party,” he said.
Balraj Singh said he would work with sincerity and dedication to contribute to Punjab’s progress and serve the people under the AAP banner.