Atishi Slams Delhi Police Notice, Calls It Theatrics; BJP Hits Back

Delhi Minister Atishi criticized the police notice related to her MLA poaching allegations, while the BJP accused AAP of hindering the investigation.

New Delhi, February 4: Delhi Minister Atishi addressed the media on Sunday regarding the notice served to her by the Delhi Police in connection with her allegations of MLA poaching against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Atishi clarified that the notice does not mention any First Information Report (FIR) or include any penal provisions.

Notice Served Without FIR or Penal Provisions

During a press conference, Atishi expressed sympathy for the Crime Branch officers who, she believes, are being compelled by their political superiors to engage in theatrics. She highlighted that the notice served to her lacks any reference to an FIR or specific sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), or Prevention of Corruption Act.

AAP Accuses BJP of Obstructing Probe

Senior AAP leader Jasmine Shah echoed Atishi's sentiments, pointing out that the media's presence at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence even before the arrival of Crime Branch officers raised suspicions. Shah questioned the secrecy surrounding the investigation and highlighted the increasing crime rate in Delhi, contrasting it with the swift response to the BJP's complaint.

BJP Counters AAP's Claims

Delhi BJP secretary Bansuri Swaraj countered the AAP's accusations, stating that Atishi's press conference revealed her limited understanding of the law. Swaraj emphasized that the ongoing inquiry is a preliminary stage where notices are routinely served. She accused the AAP of attempting to obstruct the investigation and reiterated the BJP's stance that the allegations are baseless.

AAP Urged to Provide Evidence

Swaraj urged AAP leaders to present evidence or names of individuals involved in the alleged poaching attempts instead of creating hurdles for the police. She expressed disappointment in Atishi's remarks about police officers being forced into theatrics, calling it disrespectful to public servants.

Crime Branch Seeks Information from Kejriwal and Atishi

The Crime Branch notice directs Kejriwal and Atishi to provide information related to their allegations against the BJP, suggesting that their statements indicate knowledge of a cognizable offense. They have been asked to respond to the notice by February 5.

The ongoing controversy surrounding the AAP's MLA poaching allegations has intensified with the exchange of accusations between the AAP and the BJP. As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on whether the AAP can substantiate its claims and whether the BJP's response will effectively counter the allegations.