Exclusive: AAP to lose its 'identity'? 'I don't have faith in AAP, Kejriwal now; want my logo back'

New Delhi, Apr 8: In another unwanted trouble for the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi, claiming ownership of AAP logo a party supporter has demanded it back.

This incident comes barely a day after a UK-based software engineer and AAP supporter, Kundan Sharma, wants the blue WagonR back which he donated to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. The NRI, who was once impressed by the party's action and went forward to donate it his car, motorcycle and lakhs of rupees, is reportedly upset with the rift within the party. [Upset with AAP, supporter who had gifted Kejriwal his blue WagonR now wants it back]

Same is the case with another party volunteer who now wants party's logo back. Sunil Lal, who claims to have designed the AAP logo, has asked the party to stop using it in any form of branding including on stationary, website, handbills, flags, posters etc. Lal claimed the party logo as his 'intellectual property' and hence demanded it back.

In a letter sent to AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, Lal wrote, "The logo which I had designed for AAP is my intellectual property, ownership of which I had never transferred to the party. Hence, the use of same should be stopped with immediate effect." [Posters comparing Kejriwal with Hitler surface in Delhi]

Lal has been associated with Arvind Kejriwal since his days in India Against Corruption. He was involved in several grass root level works and even designed several posters and banners for India Against Corruption.

In an exclusive interview to OneIndia Sunil Lal revealed he has lost his faith in Arvind Kejriwal and AAP and that is why he has take this ultimate decision. Here are the excerpts of the interview:

Why are you demanding AAP's logo back?

I had designed Aam Aadmi Party's logo with a good intention and for a noble cause. But the recent conflicts and infighting within the party has dashed the hope and aspirations of the people, I am deeply saddened with what all is happening in the party. I don't want the logo, designed for a noble purpose, being utilised for fulfilling the ambitions of one man.

What will you do if AAP continues using your logo?

I designed this logo after meeting with Arvind Kejriwal, but this logo is my intellectual property. I never gave its 'official' possession to the party. After 15 days of conflict with my conscience I have come to this decision. I will wait for Arvind (Kejriwal) and party's response for another 15 days, following which I will take legal route.

Have you taken this decision to blackmail AAP and earn easy money?

No. I have been associated with the party since India Against Corruption days. I was associated with the party for 'change' and 'Swaraj'. By God's grace, I am capable enough to fulfill my needs, my business is also doing well. I don't have any financial desires from the party.

Do you have any conflicts with AAP?

I have no personal grievances with Aam Aadmi Party. I always thought this party will bring a change in country's politics. But, events in the recent past have exposed the party's dark side in front of the people. This is very disappointing, AAP has destroyed the hopes and aspirations of the people of this country.

Are you a supporter of Yogendra Yadav, Prashant Bhushan?

I have no interests in politics. However, I will always support those who work towards strengthening country's democratic structure. I supported Arvind (Kejriwal) in order to bring a change, but he has left the noble cause way behind. Arvind (Kejriwal) needs to be reminded that one can not achieve 'Swaraj' by merely reading a book on 'Swaraj'.

Has AAP's intellect depleted following ouster of Yogendra Yadav and Bhushans?

People like Yogendra Yadav, Prashant Bhushan and Shanti Bhushan have a special place in the society. They were party's real resources. AAP has corroded its very foundation after showing the doors to its founding members.

OneIndia News