With the Delhi Assembly elections just days away, a controversy erupted after Delhi police seized cash and liquor bottles from a car bearing a "Punjab Sarkar" label and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) pamphlets. The Punjab government has since clarified that the vehicle's registration number is "forged and fake," and it does not belong to any state government employee.
The incident unfolded on Wednesday night when the Tilak Marg police station received a tip about a suspicious car with a 'PB' (Punjab) registration number parked near Punjab Bhavan. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found to contain multiple AAP pamphlets, liquor bottles, and a significant amount of cash. Delhi police confirmed the seizure and stated that appropriate legal action is being initiated.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was quick to criticize the AAP, with MP Praveen Khandelwal calling the incident a reflection of the party's "disgusting face." He accused the AAP of corruption and claimed that the BJP would form the next government in Delhi.
In response, AAP national spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar dismissed the allegations as "hilarious," stating that the vehicle's owner is from Maharashtra and not connected to the party. She emphasized that the car never entered Punjab Bhavan and accused the BJP of spreading misinformation.
The Punjab government issued a detailed clarification, revealing that the registration number on the seized vehicle belongs to a Ford Eco Sport, while the apprehended car is a Hyundai Creta. The statement confirmed that the number plate was forged and that no such vehicle is owned or hired by the Punjab government.
The Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for February 5, 2025, have intensified into a triangular contest between the AAP, BJP, and Congress. The incident has added fuel to the political fire, with each party trading accusations in the run-up to the polls.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process, free from malpractices. The counting of votes will take place on February 8, 2025, determining the future leadership of the national capital.
