Delhi Police’s Crime Branch arrested Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Naresh Balyan in connection with a 2023 extortion case. The arrest followed the emergence of an audio clip purportedly featuring a conversation between Balyan and gangster Kapil Sangwan, alias Nandu, discussing the collection of ransom money from businessmen.
Balyan, representing Uttam Nagar, was detained for questioning at the Crime Branch office in R.K. Puram and subsequently arrested. He is scheduled to be presented before the Rouse Avenue Court today as his custody period concludes. Balyan stated, “We are going to file a bail application.”
The AAP has condemned the arrest, with party MP Sanjay Singh alleging that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is orchestrating a conspiracy against AAP leaders following Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s criticism of Delhi’s law and order situation. Singh asserted that the charges against Balyan are baseless.
Conversely, BJP leaders have accused Balyan of colluding with gangster elements to extort money from business owners. BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia played the alleged audio clip during a press conference, questioning whether AAP leadership would take action against Balyan.
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The case has intensified political tensions in Delhi, with both parties exchanging allegations over governance and public safety issues. Further investigation is underway to determine the extent of Balyan’s involvement in the extortion activities.
