As Delhi braces for the announcement of the Assembly election results, the political atmosphere has become charged with tension and drama. A fierce war of words has erupted between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with both sides trading sharp allegations and counter-allegations. Amid the escalating conflict, the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) has stepped into the fray, issuing a legal notice to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, seeking detailed evidence to support his claim that the BJP attempted to bribe AAP lawmakers to overthrow his government.
ACB Notice to Kejriwal
On the morning of February 7, ACB officers arrived at Kejriwal’s official residence at 5, Ferozeshah Road, to question him regarding his allegations. Reports suggest that Kejriwal refused to cooperate with the inquiry, following which a formal notice was handed over to him, asking him to record a statement. AAP leaders have condemned the move, calling it a politically motivated tactic by the BJP to discredit their party ahead of the crucial election results.
Allegations of Operation Lotus
Earlier in the day, AAP accused the BJP of attempting to execute “Operation Lotus,” a term often used to describe alleged attempts by the BJP to lure opposition leaders into defecting. Kejriwal claimed that AAP candidates were being offered Rs. 15 crore each to switch sides before the election results were declared. He stated that several of his party’s candidates received calls from BJP intermediaries with lucrative offers.
The BJP swiftly rejected these allegations, calling them baseless and a desperate attempt by AAP to divert attention. BJP leaders argued that if such calls were indeed made, AAP should provide substantial proof, including the names of the candidates who received them and the phone numbers from which they originated.
Delhi LG’s Response and ACB Probe
The matter escalated when the Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) took cognizance of the allegations and ordered an ACB investigation. Following this directive, ACB officers sought a response from Kejriwal, but he reportedly failed to provide any concrete evidence. BJP leaders claim that Kejriwal’s reluctance to cooperate is a sign that the allegations were fabricated.
Election Commission and Form 17C Controversy
Another controversy that has emerged ahead of the election results revolves around Form 17C, a document that records the number of votes polled at each booth. AAP leaders have alleged that the delay in publishing this data raises concerns about electoral manipulation. However, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has clarified that all polling agents had signed Form 17C at every booth and no complaints were received regarding discrepancies. BJP leaders argue that AAP’s focus on procedural issues is an attempt to pre-emptively cast doubt on the election results.
Legal Troubles for Kejriwal
Beyond the election drama, Kejriwal faces a slew of legal challenges. There are multiple defamation cases against him, along with an ongoing investigation into corruption allegations related to the Delhi liquor policy. Legal experts suggest that if AAP loses power, Kejriwal could find himself embroiled in even more legal battles. Reports also indicate that Kejriwal has used government funds to hire top lawyers to defend himself, a move that has drawn sharp criticism.
Additionally, questions have been raised about his use of an official bungalow. Sources allege that Kejriwal has been residing in a government property not officially allotted to him, a violation of official protocol. If proven, this could add another layer of controversy to his political career.
What Lies Ahead?
As Delhi awaits the election results, the political tension continues to mount. If AAP loses, BJP leaders anticipate that Kejriwal and his party may escalate their claims of electoral fraud and mobilize protests across the city. Meanwhile, security forces have been put on high alert to prevent any disruptions at counting centers.
Regardless of the outcome, this election will likely have a lasting impact on Delhi’s political future. If BJP secures a victory, it will mark a significant shift in the capital’s governance after a decade of AAP rule. Conversely, if AAP retains power, it will reaffirm its stronghold despite mounting legal and political challenges.
Tomorrow’s results will not only decide the fate of Delhi but also shape the national political discourse in the run-up to the 2029 General Elections.
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