Is AAP Transforming Punjab into a Rehabilitation Centre for Kejriwal’s Loyalists?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of Political Colonization: Chugh claims AAP is installing loyalists in Punjab.
- Concerns About Integrity: Questions arise regarding the appointments of Delhi lawyers.
- Transparency Issues: The role of Manish Sisodia under scrutiny.
- Public Trust Erosion: BJP argues Kejriwal is losing public confidence.
- Need for Local Leadership: Emphasis on the importance of local expertise in governance.
Chandigarh, May 20 (NationPress) BJP's national General Secretary Tarun Chugh criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday for transforming Punjab into a refuge for Arvind Kejriwal's loyalists who have been dismissed in Delhi.
In response to the recent appointment of three lawyers from Delhi -- Mohammad Irshad, Prashant Manchanda, and R.V. Sinha -- as Additional Advocate Generals in Punjab, Chugh questioned if there was a lack of local legal expertise or if Punjab had now become a “shelter home” for Kejriwal's “blue-eyed boys.”
Chugh stated: “The manner in which Arvind Kejriwal is placing his personal circle in significant positions in Punjab indicates backdoor control and political colonization. From discarded lawyers in Delhi to politicians with dubious backgrounds, they are finding sanctuary in Punjab’s power corridors.”
He also raised concerns about Manish Sisodia, who, despite lacking a constitutional role and being under investigation for corruption, is receiving state support and resources in Punjab.
“What constitutional or moral authority does Sisodia possess in Punjab? Why is a corruption-implicated individual being treated like a state guest?” Chugh questioned.
He added, “This isn't governance; it's a mockery of Punjab's dignity. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has become a mere rubber stamp, while Kejriwal governs Punjab from a distance like a puppet master.”
Chugh condemned this as a disgraceful undermining of federal values, asserting that the residents of Punjab did not vote to have Delhi's leftovers imposed upon them.
“Bhagwant Mann must provide answers to the people of Punjab -- has Punjab been pledged to Delhi's ‘darbaris’?” Chugh remarked.
On the previous day, BJP leader and Delhi minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa expressed astonishment at yet another tactic from Kejriwal to exploit Punjab by assigning key roles to his Delhi associates -- following a similar pattern he enacted in Delhi, where he lost public trust.
“He’s now using Punjab as his backup playground,” Sirsa stated on X.
He also mentioned that Reena Gupta from Delhi was appointed as the Chairman of Punjab's Pollution Board.
“Kejriwal is doing this to undermine the authority and sovereignty of Punjab. What a disgraceful way to gather funds for elections by placing his favorites in influential roles!” Sirsa added.