PHAGWARA: Former BJP Rajya Sabha MP Avinash Rai Khanna has accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab of sabotaging democratic processes during the ongoing municipal elections. Khanna alleged that AAP leaders are resorting to coercion and unethical tactics to secure victory, undermining the spirit of democracy in the state.
Citing incidents from Patiala, Khanna claimed that AAP leaders have been tearing nomination papers of candidates from other political parties and threatening them, which he termed as “a blatant attack on democracy.” Condemning these actions, Khanna said, “The incidents in Patiala exemplify AAP’s undemocratic behavior and are a disgrace to the electoral process.”
Khanna further alleged that AAP leaders displayed similar “hooliganism” during the recent Lok Sabha and Assembly by-elections. He accused the party of using unethical means to hold on to power, stating, “This shows that AAP is no longer relying on public support but on sheer coercion to rule.”
Khanna expressed confidence in the people of Punjab, describing them as “visionary and democratic.” He urged the electorate to exercise their voting rights judiciously and ensure that AAP is removed from power in future elections.
The BJP leader criticized AAP’s governance and warned that such actions would backfire. “Punjab’s people have already rejected AAP due to its failures, and these undemocratic acts further expose the party’s desperation, ” he said.
As tensions rise in the state during the municipal elections, Khanna’s sharp criticism adds to the mounting pressure on AAP to uphold democratic principles