Chandigarh/New Delhi April 24,
In a major political development that has triggered nationwide debate, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has successfully executed a fresh “Operation Lotus,” engineering a split within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Three Rajya Sabha MPs from Punjab have now merged with the BJP, dealing a significant blow to the Arvind Kejriwal-led party.
What makes this development more striking is the inclusion of Ashok Mittal among the defectors. Mittal, who was recently appointed as AAP’s leader in the Rajya Sabha, was considered extremely close to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. His sudden shift to the BJP has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about internal dissent within the AAP’s Punjab unit.
The episode has reignited a larger debate on political ethics in India. Critics argue that elected representatives switching sides after winning on a party mandate undermines democratic values.
Opposition parties have termed the move a classic case of “Operation Lotus,” alleging inducements and political pressure. The BJP, however, has defended the development, stating that leaders are joining the party voluntarily in support of its governance and development agenda.
Strategically, the BJP sees this as an opportunity to expand its footprint in Punjab, a state where it has traditionally struggled to gain strong ground.
cThe induction of influential Rajya Sabha MPs is expected to strengthen the party’s position ahead of future electoral battles and reshape political equations in the state.
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