Thu Dec 18 09:07:36 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewrite as a news article:

Summary:

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has reportedly swept the Zila Parishad and is leading in Panchayat Samiti elections in Punjab, according to initial results declared on December 18, 2025. While complete results are pending, AAP has secured a significant lead, prompting celebrations from party leaders like Arvind Kejriwal, who attributed the victory to the public’s approval of the Bhagwant Mann government. The opposition, led by the Congress and SAD, has accused AAP of rigging the elections and misusing its power, alleging high-handedness and unfair practices.

News Article:

AAP Claims Victory in Punjab Rural Elections Amidst Opposition Accusations of Rigging

Chandigarh, India – December 18, 2025 – The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is claiming a major victory in the Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections in Punjab, as initial results show the party leading in the majority of zones. According to officials, the AAP has secured a significant lead in the Zila Parishad polls, winning 201 out of 317 declared zones.

The Congress party is in second place with 60 zones, followed by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) with 39 zones. The BJP has secured 4 zones, BSP 3, and Independents 10. The final results are still being tallied as counting of ballots continues.

In the Panchayat Samiti elections, AAP is reportedly leading in a majority of zones.

The apparent victory was met with jubilation from AAP leadership. Arvind Kejriwal, accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, stated that the results indicate strong public support for the state government’s initiatives in rural areas. Kejriwal vehemently denied opposition claims of electoral misconduct, asserting that the elections were conducted fairly.

However, the opposition is crying foul. Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring accused the AAP of “stealing” the elections, alleging misuse of official machinery and high-handed tactics against opposition candidates. Similar accusations have been made by the Shiromani Akali Dal, further fueling controversy surrounding the electoral process.

Polling took place on December 14th for 347 Zila Parishad zones and 2,838 Panchayat Samiti zones across Punjab. The final results are expected to be announced in the coming hours. This election will certainly bring about more controversy between the parties as the results are finalized.

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