MOHAMMAD ZIYAUDDIN
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Chandigarh: Is the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab on shaky ground? Speculation about a potential collapse of the state government has gained traction after Pratap Singh Bajwa, Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, claimed that 32 AAP MLAs are in touch with him.
Bajwa further alleged that some AAP MLAs are also in discussions with the BJP, hinting at a possible political realignment. However, he clarified that the Congress will not be responsible if the AAP government falls, implying that the BJP might engineer the collapse.
"We Are in Touch with AAP MLAs" – Pratap Singh Bajwa
Speaking to media, Bajwa made some explosive claims, stating:
“We are in touch with several AAP MLAs, ministers, and other senior leaders. Congress, under no circumstances, will bring down the AAP government in Punjab. Rather, it is the BJP that will do this.”
Despite these allegations, Bajwa maintained that Congress wants AAP to complete its five-year term, so that people can see the consequences of their choice.
Allegations of Corruption & Money Laundering
Bajwa also accused the Bhagwant Mann government of facilitating "thousands of crores" in money laundering to Australia. He claimed the funds were generated through liquor sales and land-use policy changes, raising serious concerns about financial mismanagement.
AAP Hits Back: "Bajwa is Working for BJP"
AAP leaders dismissed Bajwa’s claims, accusing him of colluding with the BJP to destabilize the Punjab government.
AAP leader Neel Garg alleged:
“Bajwa has secured his BJP ticket for the next Punjab Assembly elections after meeting senior BJP leaders in Bengaluru. Rahul Gandhi should keep an eye on him.”
AAP leaders insist that the Congress leader is attempting to create political instability, especially after Arvind Kejriwal's crushing defeat in the Delhi elections.
AAP’s Anti-Corruption Crackdown Amid Political Tensions
In response to mounting pressure, the Bhagwant Mann government has launched a massive anti-corruption drive, leading to the dismissal of dozens of police personnel from constable to inspector level.
Why This Matters:
- Delhi’s AAP government suffered a major electoral setback, putting Punjab’s leadership under scrutiny.
- If AAP MLAs defect, Punjab could see political turmoil similar to Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
- BJP’s alleged involvement adds another layer of intrigue, as the party is actively expanding in Punjab.
Is the AAP Government in Punjab at Risk?
While Bajwa’s claims suggest internal unrest within AAP, there is no official confirmation of an imminent MLA defection or government collapse. However, if 32 MLAs switch sides, it could destabilize the AAP government in Punjab and give opposition parties a chance to grab power.
With 2027 Punjab elections still far away, this political drama is far from over. Will AAP hold its ground, or is Punjab heading for a major political shake-up? Stay tuned for updates!
