AAP fields wrestler, actress in Punjab poll second list; drops eight MLAs

The Aam Aadmi Party unveiled its second slate of 31 candidates for the Punjab assembly elections on Tuesday, making several high-profile selections that underscore the party's strategy to broaden its appeal ahead of the 2027 polls.

Among the notable inclusions are international wrestler Jassa Patti and Punjabi actress Sonia Mann, both of whom received party tickets. The AAP has also fielded two sitting MPs in the assembly contest: Sangrur MP Meet Hayer and Hoshiarpur MP Dr. Raj Kumar Chabbewal, both of whom will contest the lower house elections.

The announcement triggered significant upheaval within the party's state unit, as AAP dropped tickets for eight incumbent legislators. The move signals the party's willingness to make substantial changes to its legislative slate as it prepares for elections in the state where it currently governs.

The candidate selections reflect AAP's efforts to strengthen its presence in Punjab while attempting to energize voters through fresh faces and prominent personalities from sports and entertainment sectors. The party's strategy comes as major political formations across India continue finalizing their rosters ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.