– Abdul Bari Masoud
New Delhi: As exit polls predict a BJP victory in Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Party accused the BJP of horse-trading. AAP alleged that the BJP is offering ₹15 crore each to seven AAP candidates to switch sides.
At a press conference, senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh said that the BJP has accepted defeat even before vote counting. He alleged the BJP launched ‘Operation Lotus’ to buy AAP MLAs for ₹15 crore each and break the party.
Singh cited Maharashtra, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Manipur, saying BJP has a history of toppling governments. He stated that since morning, AAP candidates have reported receiving offers to defect.
Seven AAP candidates were allegedly contacted by BJP operatives, urging them to switch sides. Singh said AAP has instructed its candidates to stay alert and record such calls as evidence. If approached in person, they should use hidden cameras to expose the BJP’s tactics.
AAP has warned all members to remain vigilant. Singh declared that BJP already knows it will lose on February 8. He accused BJP of trying to crush democracy through horse-trading, as seen in past elections.
He recalled that after the 2013 elections, BJP leader Sher Singh Dagar tried to buy an AAP MLA. BJP has used money, investigative agencies, and pressure tactics to break leaders. They poached an MP in Punjab, a Delhi minister, and an MLA from Seemapuri.
Despite BJP’s efforts, Singh said, AAP has defended Delhi. He asserted that BJP will not stop trying to destabilize them, but AAP remains firm in its fight.
