GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken action against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi for her recent allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). On April 5, 2024, the Commission issued a show cause notice to Atishi regarding her claims that the BJP attempted to recruit her into the party, according to media reports.
In the notice, the Election Commission requested Atishi, who also serves as a Delhi Minister, to substantiate her statement regarding the BJP's alleged poaching attempt, with valid evidence. The apex election body set a deadline for Atishi to respond by noon of April 8.
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The notice emphasised on the fact that the public tends to believe statements made by political figures. The Election Commission stressed the importance of ensuring factual accuracy in such statements, particularly since the veracity of Atishi's claims has been challenged.
The notice addressed Atishi directly, stating, "...you are a minister in the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi and leader of a national party." It urged her to provide a detailed response to the matter.
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Atishi had previously asserted on April 2 that the BJP approached her through a close associate, offering her membership in the party. She alleged that the BJP warned her of potential legal consequences if she refused to join.
Her remarks prompted a response from the Delhi unit of the BJP, with Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva confirming that a defamation notice had been issued to Atishi. The notice demanded a public apology from Atishi for her accusations against the BJP.
