Two first information reports (FIRs) have been lodged against Rajya Sabha Member Sandeep Pathak in Punjab under non-bailable sections, according to multiple sources. The FIRs were registered in separate districts within the state. Pathak, who recently defected from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) along with six other Rajya Sabha MPs, was reportedly seen leaving his Delhi residence as Punjab Police teams were dispatched. Official sources indicated a potential arrest was imminent.
Details of Allegations Remain Sparse
Details concerning the specific charges in the FIRs have not yet been disclosed. However, some reports suggest the cases relate to allegations of harassing women and corruption. Pathak himself stated he was unaware of the FIRs.
Political Context Surrounds Registrations
The development follows a significant political shift where seven of the AAP's ten Rajya Sabha MPs announced their departure from the party on April 24, citing alleged deviations from core principles and values by AAP leadership. Pathak was among these seven. The group formally merged with the BJP, with the Rajya Sabha Chairman officially accepting their move.
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"Working under the AAP had become difficult due to various reasons and that's why he was forced to quit the party and join the BJP," Pathak had stated last month, emphasizing a desire to "work for the country."
Punjab BJP working president Ashwani Sharma has characterized the FIRs as an attempt by the AAP government to "suppress the opposition."
Broader Party Realignments
The defection of the seven MPs represented a substantial jolt to the AAP, particularly ahead of upcoming assembly elections in the state. All but one of the departing MPs represent Punjab in the Upper House. Separately, the AAP government in Punjab successfully passed a confidence motion in the state Assembly on Friday.
