Not just winning seats, transforming politics: Kejriwal at Doda Rally

Srinagar, Oct 13: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday celebrated the party’s maiden victory in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections, calling it the dawn of a new ideology and approach to politics.
Speaking at a mega rally in Doda, Kejriwal congratulated Mehraj Malik, who made history by becoming AAP’s first MLA in the region, defeating BJP candidate Gajay Singh Rana by over 4,538 votes.
Addressing a gathering of supporters, Kejriwal said, “This is not just the beginning of AAP in Jammu and Kashmir, but the start of a new ideology and approach to politics. We are dedicated to improving education, healthcare, and providing free electricity to the people.”
The rally saw Kejriwal, accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other AAP leaders, arrive in Doda by helicopter. They were warmly welcomed by local party members.
Kejriwal emphasised that AAP’s victory would usher in significant changes across the Union Territory over the next decade. “Like Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir has also been reduced to a half state, with most powers vested in the Lieutenant Governor. I would like to tell Omar Abdullah that if you face any challenges in governance, ask me, I know how to run Delhi,” he remarked, drawing applause from the crowd.
The AAP leader expressed hope that Mehraj Malik would be entrusted with responsibilities in the new government, enabling him to serve not only Doda but the entire region. Kejriwal further reiterated the party’s commitment to transforming the political landscape and enhancing living standards.
“Our fight is not just to win seats; we are here to transform the system and introduce a new type of politics focused on the people’s welfare,” he added.
Kejriwal also congratulated Malik for his decisive win, marking AAP’s success in securing an MLA in a fifth state. Malik, a former District Development Council (DDC) member, received 23,228 votes, surpassing BJP’s Rana who garnered 18,690 votes. National Conference leader Khalid Najib Suharwardy, DPAP leader Abdul Majid Wani, and Congress candidate Sheikh Riaz Ahmad secured 13,334, 10,027, and 4,170 votes respectively.
On October 8, Malik’s victory symbolised a significant achievement for AAP as it made inroads into the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. Subsequently, on Friday, Malik submitted a formal letter of support to the Lieutenant Governor’s office in favour of the National Conference. The party has extended its support to the coalition government led by Omar Abdullah, which, along with Congress, is set to form the first government in the region since the abrogation of Article 370.
Kejriwal thanked the voters of Doda for their overwhelming support and assured that AAP would work tirelessly towards the development of the area.
“We are here to thank you and to promise that we will bring development, improved education, and healthcare to Doda and beyond,” he said.