Protests galore as Ludhiana West heads for bypoll

Ludhiana West faces heated protests, fierce slogans, and shifting alliances ahead of June 19 bypoll

- TARUNI GANDHI

As the June 19 by-election for Ludhiana West inches closer, political and social turbulence has gripped the industrial city, with surging protests, aggressive campaign slogans, and unexpected party realignments reshaping the electoral landscape.

What was expected to be a routine contest is turning into a high-decibel showdown, with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) facing fire from multiple directions—protesting unions, resurgent rivals, and even disgruntled allies.

In a vivid display of anger and disillusionment, multiple workers' and teachers' unions staged massive protests across Ludhiana West this week, defying the scorching June heat to press their long-standing demands.

One of the most impactful demonstrations came from the Anganwadi Mulazam Union, whose members—mostly women—gathered outside Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), many cradling their children while chanting slogans against the government.

Led by Harjeet Kaur Panjola, the protesters accused the AAP government of abandoning its promises.

"They promised us double salaries before elections. Forget hikes; even our fixed wages are irregular," said one protester.

Subhash Rani, another worker, linked their struggle to larger national concerns, "India ranks 105th out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index. And we, who serve children and mothers, are being ignored."

The protesters also flagged the poor implementation of nutrition schemes, alleging that meals for women and children were insufficient and often skipped.

Their resilience in the punishing heat painted a grim picture of grassroots discontent—just days before the bypoll.