The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has submitted a petition to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, seeking the termination of seven Rajya Sabha members who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The petition, submitted on Tuesday, argues that the defection of these MPs violates the anti-defection law and calls for their immediate disqualification.
Details of the Petition
The AAP has requested the Chairman to declare the seven MPs as disqualified under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which deals with anti-defection. The party claims that these MPs have voluntarily given up their membership of the AAP and joined the BJP, thereby attracting the provisions of the law. The petition is signed by AAP's national secretary and Rajya Sabha member, and it lists the names of the seven MPs along with the dates of their alleged defection.
Background of the Defection
The seven Rajya Sabha MPs were elected on AAP tickets but later switched allegiance to the BJP. This move has been criticized by the AAP as a betrayal of the voters' mandate. The party has been vocal about its stance against defection, calling it a threat to democratic integrity. The BJP, on the other hand, has welcomed the MPs, citing their desire to work for national development.
Legal Implications
Under the anti-defection law, any elected member who voluntarily gives up membership of their political party or votes against the party's whip can be disqualified. The AAP's petition seeks to invoke this provision against the seven MPs. Legal experts suggest that the Chairman has the authority to decide on the petition after giving the MPs a chance to be heard. The matter could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
Reactions from Political Parties
The AAP has accused the BJP of poaching its members to weaken the party. Senior AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal stated that this is an attack on democracy and urged the Chairman to take swift action. The BJP, however, has dismissed the petition as politically motivated, arguing that the MPs joined the BJP of their own free will. The Congress party has also commented, calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Next Steps
The Rajya Sabha Chairman is expected to review the petition and may issue notices to the seven MPs for their response. The process could take several weeks, and the final decision will be based on the evidence presented. This case is being closely watched by political analysts as it could impact the balance of power in the Rajya Sabha.
