BJP Accuses AAP of Being a Syndicate of Extortionists and Criminals Following Alleged Audio Revelations

New Delhi, Nov 30 (NationPress) BJP National Spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia on Saturday accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of evolving into a party of 'extortionists and gangsters', after showcasing an alleged audio clip of an AAP MLA in conversation with a gangster regarding the extortion of funds from a businessman.

During a press conference at the party's headquarters, alongside Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, Bhatia alleged that AAP MLA Naresh Balyan was involved in unlawful activities with the approval of party leader Arvind Kejriwal and questioned whether the MLA would face expulsion from the party.

Bhatia asserted that the audio clip demonstrated Balyan discussing threats and intimidation strategies to extort money from a builder. He contended that such conduct mirrors the essence of the AAP and its leadership.

"The corrupt AAP has now transformed into a congregation of hardcore criminals. With Arvind Kejriwal's consent, AAP's MLA stands as both a criminal and a gangster," he claimed.

"Who is their (AAP) primary backer? It is the gangster who blatantly extorts money. And who instructs them to engage in extortion? Does someone who has sworn to uphold the Constitution openly collaborate in extortion with Kejriwal's approval?" he questioned.

"AAP MLA or perhaps it would be more fitting to label him as extortionist MLA Naresh Balyan, is heard conversing with a gangster in this audio clip. The MLA interacts with the gangster as if they were brothers. The MLA indicates that a specific builder is being summoned, threatened, and intimidated. They deliberate on escalating threats, demanding ransom, and distributing the collected funds. Such behavior is intolerable for any MLA; however, if the MLA is affiliated with a party led by the dishonest convenor Arvind Kejriwal, then it becomes feasible," he alleged.

Drawing comparisons with the BJP-led Central Government, Bhatia remarked, "On one hand, the law and order situation in Delhi lies with the Centre and we strive to ensure that everyone feels secure. Conversely, the elected government of Delhi, which has taken an oath to the Constitution, threatens the residents and guarantees that they do not feel safe. This is concerning."

Bhatia also challenged Kejriwal's silence on the issue and demanded to know whether Balyan would be expelled from the party.

"If Kejriwal and Delhi CM Atishi remain inactive, it will be evident that this extortion is being orchestrated under Kejriwal's directives," he added.

Critiquing AAP's history, Bhatia referred to previous scandals involving party members, including Tahir Hussain, who is implicated in the Delhi riots case, and former ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain, who are facing corruption charges.

He also mentioned Amanatullah Khan's arrest for assault, a rape accusation against another MLA, and domestic violence allegations against Somnath Bharti.

Bhatia concluded that AAP had forfeited its moral authority to govern, asserting, "The people of Delhi deserve better. AAP should not even hold a position in the Opposition." He vowed to continue advocating until Balyan was expelled from the party and faced legal repercussions, stating, "The only place for such individuals is behind bars."