In a display of resilience and sarcasm amidst defections within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ranks, Sandeep Pathak, the party’s national general secretary, delivered a robust message, indicating a nonchalant attitude towards those swaying towards the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
During a gathering of party MLAs and workers in Ludhiana, Pathak took a bold stance, suggesting that those tempted to join BJP were free to do so. In a biting tone, he commented on the allure of power, insinuating that the desire for votes and political influence often drives such decisions. “They’ll be yearning for every single vote…It seems they’re eyeing BJP now because it’s in power,” Pathak remarked, his words dripping with sarcasm.
Recent defections, including AAP MP Sushil Kumar Rinku and MLA Sheetal Angural’s shift to BJP, have stirred waves within the party. Additionally, allegations of lucrative offers from BJP to AAP MLAs have surfaced, with Ludhiana South MLA Rajinderpal Kaur Chhina even filing an FIR claiming she was offered a hefty sum to switch sides.
Pathak’s response to these developments was a blend of strength and sarcasm. “Those itching to leave can bid adieu… Let them go,” he asserted, his tone carrying a hint of irony.
In a further display of confidence, particularly amidst internal turbulence, Pathak rallied AAP members, urging them to focus on the upcoming elections. He appealed for unity, asking party members to set aside internal differences and concentrate on highlighting BJP’s actions, particularly the incarceration of AAP’s national convenor Arvind Kejriwal.
Pathak’s remarks were met with applause from the gathering, which primarily comprised AAP MLAs from Ludhiana. Despite challenges, Pathak exuded optimism, boldly declaring AAP’s anticipated victory in all 13 seats in Punjab.
With a touch of sarcasm, Pathak addressed concerns about governance in Kejriwal’s absence, reassuring supporters that AAP would continue to function seamlessly. He emphasized the party’s unwavering allegiance to Kejriwal, portraying AAP members as steadfast soldiers, prepared to follow Kejriwal’s lead, even if it meant taking directions from behind bars.
Sunil Jakhar, Chief of Punjab BJP took a jibe on Pathak and take it on X stating, “Jho bhajpa mein jana chahte hain, unhe tata bye bye ……., In stead of reflecting on the reasons, Pathak of AAP also reacted in exactly the same manner as Warring of Congress did when its leaders left Congress to join BJP. This arrogance will prove to be the one of the reasons of undoing of both their parties .”