CHANDIGARH: AAP’s Rajya Sabha MPs face criticism for lack of campaigning; MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal opts out, citing focus on societal contributions.
Amid questions surrounding the apparent lack of campaigning by AAP’s Rajya Sabha MPs for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, environmental activist and MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal declared on Wednesday that he would refrain from participating in any political rallies or soliciting votes.
Speaking to The Sunday Guardian, Seechewal, a prominent figure in environmental conservation, emphasised that his contributions to society serve as his testament. “While I won’t engage in public rallies to solicit votes, my commitment to the party remains unwavering. I have attended various party events and ceremonies, including instances where Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurated projects in our region. Had I been invited to any event by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, I would have attended. However, I won’t actively seek votes,” he clarified.
Seechewal further disclosed that he had communicated his decision to abstain from campaigning to the AAP leadership when offered a Rajya Sabha seat. “The party fully understands and respects my stance. No concerns have been raised by anyone within the party regarding my decision. I am uncertain as to why this has become a topic of discussion,” he remarked.
Asserting his belief in the power of actions over words, Seechewal stated, “Our work speaks for itself. People will recognize our efforts, and votes will naturally follow. This is my perspective, and everyone has their unique approach.”
Underscoring the critical importance of environmental issues, Seechewal called upon political parties to incorporate them into their electoral manifestos. Recently, he joined forces with members of Sant Samaj to advocate for the inclusion of environmental concerns and action plans in political agendas, highlighting the looming threat of climate change.
Recent data indicates that nine districts in Punjab, including Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, Moga, Faridkot, Bathinda, Ferozepur, Muktsar, Mansa, and Sangrur, are among the 310 districts across India grappling with climate change.
With AAP’s national convener Arvind Kejriwal currently incarcerated, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has taken on a prominent role as a key campaigner for the party. AAP has finalized candidates for all 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab.
Polling for all 13 Lok Sabha constituencies in Punjab is slated for June 1, with results expected on June 4.