Plea challenges AAP leader Atishi's election; Delhi HC issues notice
What's the story
The Delhi High Court has issued notice to former CM Atishi of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader over her election from the Kalkaji constituency.
The court's directive came in response to a petition questioning her election due to corrupt practices.
Justice Jyoti Singh has also issued notice to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Returning Officer, and the Delhi Police, with further proceedings scheduled for July.
Allegations
Petitioners claim Atishi's associates were caught bribing voters
The petition questioning Atishi's election was filed by constituents Kamaljit Singh Duggal and Ayush Rana.
They allege her close associates were caught with ₹5 lakh cash a day before the polls.
The petition says they were acting under Atishi's instructions to bribe voters and "buy votes" in her favor, thus violating Section 123 (1)(A) of the Representation of People Act, 1951.
Misinformation
AAP accused of spreading false information about BJP candidate
Petitioners have also alleged that Atishi's party workers circulated "fake videos" with false statements.
These AAP workers falsely alleged that men were indulging in "hooliganism" in Kalkaji on the instructions of BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri, the plea said.
The plea goes on to say that the AAP's women workers later confessed these "fake videos" were made on Atishi's orders to tarnish the BJP's image and hurt Bidhuri's chances of winning.
Misuse of power
Atishi accused of misusing official position for electoral advantage
Finally, petitioners also allege that Atishi misused her position to gain an unfair edge over other candidates in the Kalkaji Assembly Constituency.
She allegedly used her official status to boost her election campaign and reach out to voters using government vehicles and employees.
The petition also accuses Atishi of breaching the 48-hour pre-election silence period and filing a false affidavit by not disclosing an ongoing criminal case against her.