Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak Faces Two FIRs; Non-Bailable Charges Raise Arrest Fears

Chandigarh: Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak, who left Aam Aadmi Party and joined BJP, is now stuck in legal trouble. Punjab Police on Saturday registered FIRs against him under non-bailable sections in two different districts. According to sources, his arrest can happen at any time. This action has taken place just a few days after seven MPs including Pathak switched sides.

What is the full picture of the allegations against Pathak?

Separate cases have been registered against Sandeep Pathak in two police stations of Punjab. One FIR is related to corruption, while in the other there are allegations of exploitation of women. Both cases are under non-bailable sections. Police have not yet given detailed information, but the investigation is going on at a fast pace. Pathak is currently in Delhi and while giving his reaction to this, he is calling it a political conspiracy.

How big a shock was your decision to switch from AAP to BJP?

Sandeep Pathak is active in the internal strategy of the AAP since 2018, he became the National General Secretary in 2022 and was considered the main architect of AAP's big victory in Punjab. The sudden departure of the IIT Delhi alumnus to BJP was unexpected for many leaders. He left the party along with seven Rajya Sabha MPs including Raghav Chadha, Swati Maliwal.

How did Bhagwant Mann government handle the crisis?

After the MPs switched sides, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann moved a confidence motion in the Punjab Assembly. This proposal was passed in the special session on Friday. Mann said in the House that rumors are being spread that AAP will break, but the party is strong and expanding. This answered the questions raised on the stability of the government.

How was Pathak's political journey?

Pathak started with Delhi Dialogue Commission. Won Kejriwal's trust through election work in Punjab-Gujarat. His strategy was important in AAP's 2022 victory in Punjab. He was also a member of the Supreme Committee of the party. After joining BJP, he cited that it became impossible to work in AAP.

What could happen next?

The matter may become more heated due to the possibility of Pathak's arrest. The truth will come out after the police investigation is completed. The people of Punjab are keeping an eye on this entire drama. This conflict may create new political equations in the times to come.