In the wake of seven Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MPs defecting to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), senior Congress leader Ajay Maken launched a scathing attack on AAP, labeling it a 'party of billionaires'. Maken alleged that AAP acted as a proxy for the BJP in key states like Punjab and Gujarat, and claimed that the party allotted Rajya Sabha seats based on financial influence rather than merit.
Maken Questions BJP Over Induction of Punjab MPs
Maken also questioned the BJP's decision to induct MPs from Punjab, despite the party's limited vote share in the state. He accused AAP of ignoring its early leaders while favoring wealthy entrants, and alleged that the party received questionable funds. His remarks followed the Rajya Sabha's approval of the merger of the seven MPs into the BJP.
Background of the Defection
The defection of seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs to the BJP has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. The move is seen as a major setback for AAP, which had positioned itself as a clean alternative to traditional parties. Maken's comments underscore the deepening rivalry between Congress and AAP, as both parties vie for opposition space ahead of the next general elections.
Maken further alleged that AAP's leadership had compromised its principles by aligning with the BJP on key issues. He called on the Election Commission to investigate the circumstances surrounding the defection and the alleged financial irregularities within AAP.
