AAP MLA Naresh Balyan arrested in extortion case

AAP MLA Naresh Balyan was arrested by the Delhi Police Crime Branch on Saturday evening in connection with a 2023 extortion case, police officials said.“The arrest was made after an investigation revealed an audio clip of a conversation between Balyan and notorious gangster Kapil Sangwan, also known as Nandu, who is currently based abroad,” officials said.

“The conversation allegedly involved discussions about collecting ransom money from businessmen. Further investigation is in progress,” it added.

Earlier in the day, a political row had erupted after BJP leaders on Saturday accused the AAP MLA of being involved in extortion rackets.

BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia and BJP state president Virendra Sachdeva alleged that Balyan with the support of gangsters, was threatening builders and demanding ransom.

The BJP released three audio clips on social media of AAP MLA. “These clips reveal that the MLA and his close associates were identifying potential targets, such as builders, for extortion. This is not isolated behavior—it’s systemic within the AAP,” said Sachdeva.

Responding to the allegations, Naresh Balyan took to X to refute the claims, calling it a smear campaign. “The honourable High Court itself had got this fake news removed from all the channels, calling it wrong and a trap. This is an old matter they are dredging up because Arvind Kejriwal exposed BJP on law and order. Keep doing it, I am entertained. The police is yours, the CBI is yours, and yet you are barking,” he wrote, dismissing the allegations as baseless.

He had warned of legal action against those spreading the purported audio clips. “I am sending notices to all those who have spread the false clip and getting FIRs registered against them. Remember, I am not a Congressman. Those who spread lies should be ready for legal action,” he added.