NEW DELHI: A dramatic escalation of political tensions unfolded just before the counting of votes for the Delhi Assembly elections as the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) launched an investigation based on allegations made by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal. Kejriwal accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to lure AAP candidates with bribes, claiming the offer was around Rs 15-16 crore each to switch sides.
The ACB’s inquiry was initiated following directives from Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who reacted to formal complaints lodged by the BJP. With just one day left before the results of the elections are announced, the scrutiny has intensified the already fierce political rivalry.
On February 6, Kejriwal alleged through social media platforms, stating, "Some agencies are showing the abusive party is getting more than 55 seats. Our 16 candidates have received calls saying, 'Leave AAP and join our party; we’ll make you ministers and give each of you Rs 15 crores.'" This bold claim set the stage for the ACB’s involvement.
Days later, following complaints from BJP leaders about Kejriwal's accusations being false and baseless, the LG's office ordered the ACB to conduct thorough investigations. "The allegations levelled by Arvind Kejriwal and Sanjay Singh are very serious and call for serious and immediate investigation," stated BJP General Secretary Vishnu Mittal.
On February 7, ACB officials visited Kejriwal's residence as part of their inquiry. Sanjay Singh, AAP MP, asserted, "More than 16 people have been threatened. We have disclosed one phone number. We are going to file a complaint at the ACB office. Why is the ACB creating drama instead of taking action?"
The ACB later issued notices requesting details of the 16 AAP MLAS allegedly approached by the BJP and their contacts, saying, "Provide evidence and proof...to support the claim/allegations of the offer of a bribe levelled by you and your party members on various media/social media platforms." The notice also threatened potential legal action against those spreading fear and unrest amid the populace.
Critics of the ACB's actions, including AAP’s legal head Sanjeev Nasiar, argued the investigation was politically motivated and asserted, "This drama is orchestrated by the LG office...on instructions from the BJP." He contended there was initially no legal basis for the ACB’s inquiry when they first arrived at Kejriwal's residence.
The BJP, for its part, dismissed these accusations as efforts by AAP to divert attention from their dwindling political fortunes. Despite the AAP's strong assertions, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva challenged AAP leaders to provide verifiable proof of their allegations.
Compounding the heated atmosphere, the ACB's actions were seen by many as part of the larger narrative of political maneuvering as parties geared up for the election results. The assembly elections have seen AAP ruling the capital since 2015, and sentiments running high, both parties are vying for every voter’s confidence.
Exit polls prior to the investigations suggested BJP might return to power after a 27-year absence, claiming upwards of 50 seats, putting AAP’s governance on precarious footing. With AAP insisting on their allegations against BJP, what remain unclear are the broader ramifications of these accusations and investigations on the party's future as the vote counting day approaches.
The AAP’s stand remains firm, with Kejriwal, prominent among the party’s leaders, asserting the integrity and intent behind their claims. "Let the ACB conduct their inquiry; I am heading to the ACB office with my lawyer to lodge a complaint," he urged, seeking justice amid what he described as orchestrated attacks on his party.
All eyes are now set on the results as polling data suggests it will be closely contested, marking not just the next chapter for Delhi politics but also underscoring the continuing saga of allegations and investigations swirling around these influential parties. The ACB’s proceedings continue as the political drama heightens, blending the urgent circumstances of imminent election results with underlying issues of corruption and political integrity within the national capital.