In a strongly worded critique, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has called for the disqualification of seven former AAP Rajya Sabha MPs who switched allegiance to the BJP, labeling it a blatant mockery of constitutional norms. Fresh from his interaction with President Droupadi Murmu, Mann addressed the media, challenging the defectors’ audacity.
‘If they had any spine, they would’ve resigned from AAP first and then fought elections on BJP tickets,’ Mann remarked pointedly. He dissected the procedural flaws: no full party merger occurred, nor was any formal resolution passed. With seven Punjab-elected MPs among the group—now bolstering BJP’s tally to six in Rajya Sabha from the state alongside two MLAs—Mann decried it as an assault on democratic principles.
The CM laid bare the anomaly to the President, highlighting how such defections erode public trust. His solution is straightforward—disqualify the MPs under anti-defection laws and trigger bye-elections for AAP to reclaim the seats. Lacking precedent, Mann advocated legislative changes if needed, and the President promised expert consultation.
Expanding his narrative at a separate event, Mann positioned BJP as predators targeting regional outfits like AAP to consolidate power. This isn’t just Punjab’s story; it’s a national flashpoint where anti-defection laws face real tests. As Mann galvanizes his base, the controversy spotlights vulnerabilities in India’s parliamentary framework, potentially reshaping Rajya Sabha dynamics and fueling debates on political loyalty versus opportunism.
