AAP Takes Strict Action Against Moga Mayor
The Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab has taken decisive action by suspending its senior leader and Moga City Mayor, Baljit Singh Chani, following serious allegations of connections with drug smugglers. The suspension order was issued on Thursday and took effect immediately, marking a significant development in Punjab's political landscape.
Immediate Suspension and Resignation
Baljit Singh Chani has been suspended from the party with immediate effect according to the official order signed by AAP's state general secretary for Punjab, Harchand Singh Barsat. The order explicitly stated that Chani was being suspended for engaging in wrongful activities that violate the party's principles and code of conduct.
In a statement to The Indian Express, Barsat confirmed that Chani has resigned from his position as Moga City Mayor following his suspension from the party. The suspension comes after evidence emerged linking Chani to drug smugglers, though the matter remains under investigation by appropriate authorities.
Despite multiple attempts to reach him for comments, Chani remained unavailable, with his mobile phone consistently switched off. This lack of response has raised further questions about the situation.
Political Background and Achievements
Baljit Singh Chani's political journey with AAP began in 2016 when he joined as a volunteer. His rise within the party was notable, as he served as an AAP councillor from ward number 8 before achieving a significant political milestone in 2023.
Chani made history by becoming the first AAP leader to hold the Mayor's post in Punjab when he was unanimously elected as the Mayor of Moga. His election victory was substantial, having garnered the support of 42 out of the 50 councillors in the Moga Municipal Corporation House, demonstrating significant political backing.
Beyond his political career, Chani has been actively involved in social work through his registered NGO, Samaj Sewa Society, based in Moga. The organization has been recognized for its diverse humanitarian activities, including operating 24×7 services for cremating unclaimed bodies, transporting road accident victims to hospitals, and providing free ambulance services for homeless and underprivileged individuals.
Interestingly, Chani's NGO had organized anti-drug camps in villages and conducted street plays against drugs and dowry, making the current allegations particularly contradictory to his public image and social work initiatives.
Broader Implications for AAP
This suspension represents a significant development for the Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab, especially given Chani's historic position as the party's first Mayor in the state. The swift action demonstrates the party's commitment to maintaining integrity and taking strong stands against any involvement with drug-related activities, which have been a major concern in Punjab.
The timing of this suspension is crucial as AAP continues to establish its political presence in Punjab and works to build public trust. By taking immediate action against one of its prominent leaders, the party sends a clear message about its zero-tolerance policy toward any association with drug smuggling networks.
As the investigation continues, political observers are watching closely to see how this development will impact AAP's image and political strategy in Punjab, particularly in their ongoing efforts to address the state's drug problem and maintain clean governance standards.
