Punjab Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Bhagwant Mann has raised concerns regarding the potential consequences if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerges victorious in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. Mann expressed apprehension that India could potentially face a scenario akin to Russia, where there is a lack of meaningful opposition.
Emphasizing the critical nature of these elections, Mann stated, “If people make a mistake, India will become like Russia, where there is no opposition.” He drew parallels to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s landslide victory last month, securing 87% of the vote. Putin’s extended tenure will make him Russia’s longest-serving leader in over two centuries, surpassing Josef Stalin.
Mann, who is the primary campaigner for AAP in the absence of party chief Arvind Kejriwal, stressed that this election transcends mere victory or defeat, as it is a battle to safeguard democracy and the Constitution. He pointed out that certain leaders have openly stated their intentions to alter the Constitution, calling such actions unacceptable. Mann also criticized the BJP-led government for its disregard of the Supreme Court’s directives and its perceived control over institutions such as the CBI and ED.
The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), aiming for a historic third term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has set a target of securing 400 seats in this election. The ruling alliance faces challenges from opposition parties led by the Congress under the banner of the INDIA bloc.
Mann further alleged that the BJP-led government’s arrest of Kejriwal was an attempt to prevent him from campaigning. However, he affirmed that AAP stands firmly behind its leader and will continue the campaign on his behalf.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is currently incarcerated in Tihar jail in connection with the alleged Delhi Liquor scam case. His judicial custody is set to expire today, April 23, following which a decision regarding his further detention will be taken.
