Delhi LG to sue AAP leaders for ‘false’ graft charges

In a fresh development that could further escalate tension between BJP and AAP, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Wednesday threatened to sue a couple of AAP legislators, including MLAs Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj, for “highly defamatory and false” corruption allegations against him.

It came after AAP leaders alleged that Saxena during his previous assignment as the chairman of Khadi and Village Industries Commission, converted banned currency notes to the tune of Rs 1,400 crore following ban on banknotes by the Centre in November 2016. Saxena refuted the allegation, calling it a “figment of their imagination”. This is the latest flashpoint in AAP’s running feud with the Lieutenant Governor.

“The LG has taken a serious view of these blatantly false, defamatory and obviously diversionary allegations made by these AAP leaders and has decided to take legal action against them so that the AAP does not get away with its characteristic shoot and scoot” reported the NDTV. The LG said at the time, a vigilance inquiry was called when it came to be known that “certain demonetized notes were deposited in the account of Khadi Gramodyog Bhawan”. Four officials were suspended.

When the CBI stepped in, it found that ₹ 17,07,000 in banned notes was deposited and only two of the officials were involved. The case is still pending in a court, said the Lieutenant Governor’s office.

“The matter being falsely touted by the AAP is with regards to just ₹ 17.07 lakh as against the claims of ₹ 1,400 crore, which is nothing but a figment of imagination for which the habitual liars will face the consequences,” the statement said.

AAP called for an inquiry, according to the NDTV report. AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said, “There should be an independent inquiry in this case. The way this case was handled is against the principles of natural justice.” – INDIA NEWS STREAM