AAP Responds to Defection of Seven Rajya Sabha MPs to BJP

Initial Reaction from AAP

Following the announcement that seven Rajya Sabha MPs, including Raghav Chadha, are leaving the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), AAP has issued its first response. During a press conference, AAP leader Sanjay Singh stated that the people of Punjab will not forgive these seven rebel MPs. He accused the BJP of obstructing the positive initiatives undertaken by the AAP government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

Allegations Against BJP

Sanjay Singh claimed that an 'Operation Lotus' is being executed against the Punjab government, utilizing the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). He emphasized that the people of Punjab will never forget these 'traitors.' Singh highlighted the achievements of the Bhagwant Mann government, including providing 300 units of free electricity, ensuring quality education for children, and filling dry canals with water after 30 years. Additionally, he noted that the government offers direct financial assistance of ₹1,500 to women from Dalit and tribal communities and ₹1,000 to mothers and sisters each month.

Healthcare Initiatives

Moreover, Singh mentioned that the Punjab government provides free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for serious illnesses. Despite these accomplishments, he accused the BJP, led by Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, of attempting to disrupt the functioning of the Bhagwant Mann government and betraying the people of Punjab. He expressed his sorrow over the situation, stating that the government is performing well in sectors like education, health, electricity, and water, yet is facing this 'Operation Lotus.'

Raghav Chadha's Statement

Raghav Chadha, along with Ashok Kumar Mittal and Sandeep Pathak, has been a Rajya Sabha member for AAP since 2022. He expressed his disillusionment with the party, stating that it has strayed from its principles and is no longer working for the national interest but for personal gain. Chadha remarked that many have echoed his sentiments over the years, leading him to conclude that he is in the wrong party despite being the right person. He announced his departure from AAP to connect with the public.

Plans for Merger with BJP

Chadha further stated that the two-thirds of AAP's Rajya Sabha MPs will utilize the provisions of the Indian Constitution to merge with the BJP. He noted that out of ten AAP MPs in the Rajya Sabha, more than two-thirds are aligned with this decision. They have signed the necessary documents, which were submitted to the Rajya Sabha Chairman earlier today, with three of them present at the announcement.