Kejriwal Accuses BJP of Offering ₹15 Crore, Ministerial Posts to AAP Candidates

New Delhi – Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal has alleged that the BJP is trying to poach AAP candidates by offering them ₹15 crore and ministerial positions in exchange for switching sides. Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal condemned what he called an “attack on democracy”, urging his party members to resist any such offers.

The BJP, however, has strongly refuted these allegations, calling them “fabricated” and a diversion tactic by the AAP to gain political sympathy.

Kejriwal’s Allegations Against BJP

Kejriwal claimed that multiple AAP candidates contesting in upcoming elections have received calls from BJP leaders with lucrative offers to join their party. He alleged that this was part of the BJP’s larger strategy to destabilize opposition parties across India.

“They are offering ₹15 crore per candidate and even promising ministerial posts in exchange for switching sides. This is a direct attack on democracy. The people of India must know what BJP is doing behind the scenes,” Kejriwal said.

He further stated that AAP remains united and that none of its leaders would fall for such offers. “AAP leaders cannot be bought,” he declared.

BJP’s Response: “Baseless Allegations”

Responding to Kejriwal’s claims, BJP spokesperson (Name) dismissed the allegations as an attempt to divert public attention from corruption charges against AAP ministers.

“Whenever Kejriwal faces political pressure, he resorts to making baseless allegations against the BJP. If he has proof, why doesn’t he present it?”

BJP leaders also pointed out that Kejriwal had made similar claims in the past but failed to provide any concrete evidence.

Political Reactions and Fallout

The AAP-BJP rivalry has intensified in recent months, especially with elections approaching in Delhi, Punjab, and other states. The AAP has positioned itself as a strong challenger to the BJP, particularly in urban areas.

Political analysts believe that Kejriwal’s public accusations may be aimed at solidifying his party’s support base and portraying AAP as the victim of BJP’s alleged political maneuvers.

Meanwhile, opposition parties like the Congress have remained largely silent on the matter, although some leaders have criticized the BJP’s alleged “horse-trading politics.”

Past Allegations of ‘Operation Lotus’

This is not the first time AAP and other opposition parties have accused the BJP of trying to engineer defections through its so-called “Operation Lotus.”

• In Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) accused BJP of breaking their government by luring MLAs.
• In Karnataka, similar claims were made when several Congress and JD(S) MLAs joined BJP.
• AAP itself had earlier accused BJP of trying to destabilize its Punjab government through similar tactics.

What’s Next?

Kejriwal has demanded an independent investigation into the matter and urged the Election Commission of India to take strict action against “unethical political bribery.” Meanwhile, BJP leaders have challenged AAP to present evidence instead of making allegations in press conferences.

As election season heats up, the political battle between AAP and BJP is expected to intensify, with both sides using every possible tactic to sway public opinion.