Former BJP MP Parvesh Verma has filed a Rs 100-crore defamation suit against AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, accusing them of making false allegations against him. Verma stated that, if successful, the compensation would be used for development work in his New Delhi constituency, where he is contesting the February 5 assembly elections against Kejriwal.
Responding to Kejriwal‘s claim that he labeled Punjabis a threat to the country, Verma denied the accusation and highlighted his family’s longstanding contributions to the Sikh community. He alleged that AAP leaders, including Mann, were using vehicles from Punjab to enter Delhi and influence voters by distributing liquor, money, and Chinese-made CCTV cameras. Verma revealed he had reported these activities to both the police and the Election Commission.
The BJP leader accused Kejriwal of spreading lies and resorting to divisive tactics due to his party’s fear of losing the elections. He also criticized Kejriwal for allegedly disrespecting Hindu sentiments through remarks about Ram and Hanuman. Confident of BJP’s victory, Verma said, “The people of Delhi will respond on February 5, and the lotus will bloom on February 8,” referencing the BJP’s symbol.
Kejriwal, in turn, condemned Verma’s purported remarks about Punjabis, calling them offensive and deeply hurtful. He stated that Punjabis have played a vital role in shaping Delhi, with many arriving as refugees during Partition and making immense sacrifices for the country. He demanded an apology from the BJP, saying Verma’s comments were an insult to lakhs of Punjabis residing in Delhi.
The exchange has intensified the political battle as both leaders gear up for the elections, with Verma accusing AAP of underhanded campaigning and Kejriwal defending his party and the Punjabi community.