MLA Raman Arora's arrest: AAP claims stern stance on graft; Opposition says political stunt

The arrest of AAP Jalandhar MLA  Raman Arora was made by the Vigilance Bureau today, but the action against him was anticipated for the past 10 days. The government claimed it was a strong message against corruption, which the Opposition was quick to dismiss as a “political stunt”.

Arora’s arrest could not deter at least two AAP MLAs to vent ire against their own government and party. Cop-turned-AAP MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap questioned Arora's arrest, alleging he was often seen hosting family members of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Khadoor Sahib MLA Manjinder Singh Lalpura also vent his ire against a senior police officer posted at Tarn Taran, though he was later pulled up by the top brass. Sources in the party said they had not reached out to Kunwar Vijay Pratap, who had criticised the government for failing to control the liquor mafia after the Majitha hooch tragedy.

Opposition leaders believe Arora’s arrest is a “political stunt” by the ruling party to ride the anti-corruption bandwagon ahead of the crucial Ludhiana West bypoll. However, sources in AAP have told The Tribune that the party had received several complaints about the alleged “misdemeanours” of Arora.

His withdrawal of security a few days ago and subsequent denial of an audience to him by the party top bosses was an indication of things to follow. Sources in the party say that by arresting Arora, they have managed to kill two birds with one stone — the party has not only reinforced its anti-corruption stand among public by acting even against its own leaders, but also sent a strong message to the MLAs who were not toeing the party line.

Reiterating the zero tolerance policy of his government against corruption, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said no officer or politician, however affluent he might be, would be spared. “Today’s action is once again a clear message that there is no pick and choose in this tirade against corruption. Mere affiliation to the ruling party or the Opposition does not give licence of corruption to the officer or leader. My government will take exemplary action against such people…no mercy will be show to the person indulging in this sin,” he said.

However, Opposition leaders are critical and have said party would have to show its intent by ensuring that the Vigilance case against the MLA is pursued in the court and he does not resume public duties as a party representative, once he manages to secure a bail.