AAP Accuses BJP of Anti-Jat Mindset Amid Delay in Raghuvinder Shokeen's Ministerial Appointment

The AAP has accused the BJP of delaying Raghuvinder Shokeen's swearing-in as a minister in Delhi, suggesting an anti-Jat bias. Shokeen was chosen to replace Kailash Gahlot, who left AAP for BJP. Despite the announcement last month, Shokeen, representing the Jat-majority Nangloi constituency, has not been sworn in yet.

Allegations of Anti-Jat Bias

AAP's chief national spokesperson, Priyanka Kakkar, criticised the BJP for its alleged anti-Jat stance. She pointed out that even after 20 days of his nomination, Shokeen remains unsworn as a cabinet minister. "The BJPs anti-Jat mindset has been exposed," Kakkar stated. The delay in his appointment has raised questions within the party.

Approval Process and Delays

On November 18, the AAP government sent the file for Shokeen's appointment as a Cabinet minister. However, it still awaits approval. Anurag Dhandha, another AAP leader, questioned whether the BJP opposes a Jat leader becoming a minister. The process involves moving the file from the chief minister to the Delhi LG office for presidential approval.

Political Implications

AAP leaders argue that these delays are part of BJP's strategy to diminish the political influence of Jats and farmers. They claim this has sparked discontent in rural areas of Delhi. The ongoing delay is seen as an attempt to undermine these communities' political significance.

The situation remains tense as AAP continues to press for Shokeen's swift induction into the Delhi Cabinet. The party insists that such delays are unjustified and politically motivated, affecting both Jats and farmers in the region.