Sanjeev Arora Sworn in as Ludhiana West MLA; Cabinet Induction Delayed Due to Governor’s Absence

National News: Sanjeev Arora, the newly elected MLA from Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) representing Ludhiana West, was officially sworn in today in front of Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan. The brief oath-taking ceremony lasted barely five minutes and was attended by several senior AAP leaders.

Arora, a former member of the Rajya Sabha, expressed gratitude to the people and emphasized his commitment to public service. When asked about his expected inclusion in the state cabinet, Arora remarked, "I believe in taking one step at a time. For now, my priority is to serve the people."

AAP’s Punjab President, Finance Minister, attended the ceremony

The notable absence of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann at the event sparked conversation, especially since government sources had earlier indicated that he would attend the ceremony. However, prominent party leaders, including AAP’s Punjab President Aman Arora, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, and Punjab affairs in-charge Manish Sisodia, were present to witness the oath-taking. Arora was joined by close friends and family, including leading industrialist Kamal Oswal, during the brief but significant event.

Cabinet Expansion Delayed Due to Governor’s Schedule

During the election campaign, AAP had publicly declared that Arora would be immediately inducted into the cabinet upon winning the assembly seat. This promise was reiterated by AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and, more recently, by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who hinted earlier this week that Arora would be sworn in as a minister by Friday or Saturday.

However, the cabinet expansion has now been postponed, as Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria is currently in Udaipur and will return only after July 2. His absence has delayed the formal process of ministerial appointments.

AAP Confirms Arora’s Induction Is on Track

Despite the delay, AAP insiders assert that Sanjeev Arora’s cabinet induction remains on course. Once the Governor returns to Chandigarh, all formalities are expected to be completed promptly.