Arvind Kejriwal: EC is acting like BJP's political stooge
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal attacked the Centre's BJP-led NDA government for harassing his government. This was in reaction to President Ram Nath Kovind ordering the disqualification of 20 AAP MLAs based on the Election Commission's (EC) recommendation. While addressing a gathering in Najafgarh, Kejriwal declared that BJP was "imposing" false cases on AAP. What lies ahead for AAP now? Here's all about it.
First off, why were the MLAs disqualified?
These MLAs held position as parliamentary secretaries to Delhi ministers. Though they didn't enjoy the perks/salaries of ministers, they were given office spaces and cars. Moreover, they attended high-level meetings and could access ministerial files and notings. Through this, they could wield influence. Thus, EC ruled that they were holding an "office of profit," leading to their disqualification.
How did AAP react about the disqualification?
AAP was livid. They accused EC of working like the "handmaidens of the central government" and as BJP's "political stooges." Though they will challenge the disqualification in court, it seemed Kejriwal had already sounded the poll bugle. He accused the BJP for consistently creating obstacles in the government's path. He claimed "Almighty gave us 67 seats, knowing 20 MLAs will be disqualified."
What legal recourses lay before AAP?
Now, AAP has approached the Delhi HC seeking a stay on EC's recommendations. This case will be heard today. Earlier, the Delhi HC refused to pass an interim order protecting the AAP MLAs from disqualification. If AAP fails to get a reprieve, bypolls are inevitable.
So, what does this mean for AAP?
Now, what are the next steps? The Delhi Assembly speaker will now notify EC of the 20 vacancies. The latter will then announce the bypolls. Once this announcement is made, AAP will be reduced to 46 from 66 seats in the 70-member assembly. However, AAP will continue to have a majority. Apparently, AAP has asked its MLAs to be prepared for the upcoming mini-election.
But, if Delhi goes to polls, how will AAP fare?
But, if Delhi goes to polls, it might not bode well for AAP. The party's performance has been lacklustre and its credibility has also been questioned. AAP's position on this 'office of profit' issue and its bill seeking a 400% hike in Delhi legislators' salaries raised doubts over its lofty ideals. Moreover, it also faces internal dissension, which was visible during the RS nominations.
