Mon Dec 09 10:10:04 UTC 2024: ## AAP Announces Second List of Delhi Assembly Candidates, Sparks Internal Conflict

**New Delhi, November 10** – The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) released its second list of candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections on Monday, November 9th, naming 20 candidates. The list includes several notable changes and has already sparked internal conflict within the party.

Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia will contest from Jangpura, a shift from his previous constituency, Patparganj. Patparganj will now be contested by Avadh Ojha, a UPSC teacher who recently joined the AAP on December 2nd.

The most significant development is the withdrawal of sitting MLA Dilip Pandey’s candidacy from Timarpur. He has been replaced by Surendra Pal Singh Bittu, who defected from the BJP just two days prior. This decision has led to considerable unrest, with 67 Timarpur zonal and booth-level officials and workers reportedly submitting their resignations to AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal in protest.

AAP’s first list, released on November 21st, contained 11 candidates, including six who had defected from the BJP and Congress. The party is reportedly planning to replace 20-30 current MLAs, many prominent figures, in an attempt to counter any anti-incumbency sentiment. Some MLAs may also see their constituencies changed.

The current Delhi Assembly’s term ends on February 23, 2025. The AAP won a landslide victory in the last election in February 2020, securing 62 out of 70 seats. The BJP won 8 seats, while the Congress drew a blank. The upcoming election will be closely watched, given the recent political turmoil within the AAP, including Arvind Kejriwal’s imprisonment and subsequent resignation as CM, followed by Atishi’s appointment as the new Chief Minister.

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