The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing it of revolving solely around Arvind Kejriwal. BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal stated that the AAP has shifted from its roots as a party for the common people to being centered around Kejriwal. Khandelwal further labeled Kejriwal as egoistic and arrogant, claiming that only those who tolerate his behavior can stay in the party.
The criticism emerged following the removal of MP Raghav Chadha as the Deputy Leader in Rajya Sabha by the AAP. The party replaced Chadha with another Punjab MP, Ashok Mittal, and reportedly advised against allotting time to the ousted deputy leader. Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra echoed similar sentiments, alleging that individuals with integrity cannot align with Kejriwal due to his alleged ego and corruption.
Responding to the situation, Chadha expressed resilience, stating, “Silenced, not defeated. My message to the ‘aam aadmi’: Khamosh Karwaya Gaya Hun, Hara Nahi Hun. ‘Aam Aadmi Ko Mera Sandesh.” Mishra urged Chadha to reveal the truth to the public if departing from AAP, emphasizing the importance of addressing pertinent issues.
Moreover, Mishra accused AAP of engaging in corruption and striking deals with Khalistani terrorists in Punjab. He called for a focus on issues concerning the public, such as alleged malpractices in Delhi and Punjab. Congress MP Akhilesh Prasad Singh viewed the leadership changes as routine party affairs, emphasizing a party’s prerogative in appointing and relieving individuals from responsibilities.
AAP MP Malwinder Singh Kang defended the party’s decision, asserting that leadership appointments are standard procedures within the party.
