New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met President Draupadi Murmu on Tuesday. The issue was the departure of seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs to BJP. Mann called it against constitutional values and demanded consideration of the membership of MPs.
What is the whole political controversy?
Recently, AAP suffered a major setback when seven of its Rajya Sabha MPs resigned from the party and joined BJP. Most of these MPs were from Punjab. Regarding this development, AAP termed it against the mandate, while the leaders who left the party termed their decision as the result of ideological disagreement.
What issue was placed before the president?
During the meeting, Bhagwant Mann raised the issue of defection prominently. According to sources, he called it contrary to democratic values and demanded that the membership of the MPs who joined BJP be reconsidered. Mann said that such a step hurts the spirit of the mandate.
What did Maan say before the meeting?
Before meeting the president, Bhagwant Mann said on social media that his struggle to protect the rights and interests of Punjab is continuing. He also said that he, along with all the MLAs, is going to convey the voice of the state to the president so that important issues can be addressed.
Why was the presence of MLAs important?
AAP MLAs reached Delhi in large numbers and gathered outside Rashtrapati Bhavan. But only Mann was allowed inside for the meeting. The MLAs standing outside expressed hope for justice.
How practical is the demand for ‘recall’?
Chief Minister Mann has also raised the demand for recall of Rajya Sabha MPs. Although there is no such explicit provision in the Constitution, it is being seen as a form of political and moral pressure. Through this issue, AAP wants to send a message that respecting the mandate is important.
Is political conflict increasing?
After this whole matter, allegations and counter-allegations between AAP and BJP have intensified. AAP is calling it a step against democracy, while BJP says that the MPs have taken the decision on their own free will. At the same time, the leaders who left the party have also targeted the state government.
What will be the impact on national politics?
This matter is no longer limited to Punjab only, but its echo is being heard at the national level also. This change in Rajya Sabha has raised questions of trust among political parties. In such a situation, there is a possibility that there will be continued stir on this issue in the coming days at both legal and political levels.
