Congress Accuses AAP of Being a Billionaires' Party Amid Defections to BJP
'Arabpati Aadmi Party': Cong's Maken alleges 7 defected AAP MPs have average net worth of ₹818 cr
The Economic Times
Image: The Economic Times
The Congress party has accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of being a 'party of billionaires' after seven of its MPs defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Congress leader Ajay Maken claims that the average net worth of the defectors is approximately ₹818 crore ($98 million USD), alleging that AAP operates as a proxy for the BJP.
- 01Seven AAP MPs defected to the BJP, prompting Congress's accusations.
- 02Congress leader Ajay Maken labeled AAP as a 'party of billionaires'.
- 03Maken claims AAP has facilitated Rajya Sabha seats based on wealth.
- 04He alleges that AAP has connections with anti-national elements in Punjab.
- 05The average net worth of the defectors is estimated at ₹818 crore ($98 million USD).
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Following the defection of seven Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Members of Parliament to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), senior Congress leader Ajay Maken criticized AAP, suggesting it is a 'party of billionaires'. During a press conference, Maken claimed that AAP has been acting as a proxy for the BJP in states like Punjab and Gujarat, stating, 'They should change their name from Aam Aadmi Party to Arabpati Aadmiyon ki party (party of billionaires)'. He alleged that Sushil Gupta, a former Congress member, had informed him about his arrangement with AAP for a Rajya Sabha seat prior to his departure. Maken further accused AAP of being 'anti-national', alleging that it has received funds from separatist elements in Punjab. He highlighted that the average net worth of the seven defectors is approximately ₹818 crore ($98 million USD), indicating a significant wealth disparity within the party.
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The defection of AAP MPs could weaken the party's influence in the Rajya Sabha and alter political dynamics in Punjab and Gujarat.
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