AAP-MLA Alka Lamba asked to resign over Rajiv Gandhi resolution-row
What's the story
On Friday, the AAP-dominated Delhi Assembly passed a resolution suggesting Bharat Ratna should be stripped from former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi as he failed to curb 1984 anti-Sikh riots. But the controversial resolution, from which AAP swiftly distanced itself, has spelled trouble for MLA Alka Lamba, as she has been asked to quit. Meanwhile, Congress has slammed AAP over the resolution. Here's what happened.
Rift
Why exactly are AAP and Lamba at loggerheads?
The resolution sought speedy trials and justice for victims but the reference to Rajiv Gandhi caught everyone's attention. AAP has claimed there was no reference to him and it was Lamba's doing. But the legislator from Chandni Chowk claimed she opposed the resolution as she understands the sacrifices Gandhi made for the nation. Her stand on the resolution angered her colleagues, she claimed.
Quote
Two days of discussion later, resolution was passed
The text of the resolution, which was passed after discussion for two days, reportedly reads: This House also resolves that the Bharat Ratna awarded to former PM Rajiv Gandhi, who justified the 1984 massacre, be withdrawn by the Centre.
Resolution
One resolution, two theories: What AAP leaders are saying
The resolution put AAP in hot waters and party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj rushed to contain damage. He said the text related to Gandhi was handwritten, hence, couldn't be accepted. But AAP MLA Jarnail Singh, who moved the resolution, didn't agree. He mentioned Gandhi's name and said the resolution was passed by House by voice vote. Despite the 'technical shortcoming', the resolution stands passed, he said.
Possibilities
Sources claim Somnath Bharti and Lamba could face consequences
The resolution has also invited problems for Somnath Bharti, who could face disciplinary action, AAP sources told IE. They opined if Bharti wanted to add something to the resolution, he should have approached the speaker. "He just handed a note to Jarnail Singh, who read it out as part of the original resolution. Lamba caused confusion by talking about the resolution to reporters outside the House," the source said.
Twitter Post
Meanwhile, Bharti defended himself on Twitter
Jarnail ji didn't propose that amendment n never put that 4 vote.Amendments r always put to vote separately n unless passed,that can't form part of passed resolution.1st I talked of this in my speech n then suggested this amendment n party had no opportunity to see same....2/2
— Adv. Somnath Bharti (@attorneybharti) December 21, 2018
Lamba's stand
Amid uproar, Lamba says she opposed the resolution
Notably, Lamba strongly opposed to what was being said about her. She maintained she didn't support stripping Gandhi of the honor. "Rajiv Gandhi has sacrificed a lot for the country and I didn't support the proposal in Assembly of taking back his Bharat Ratna. I've been asked to resign because I stood against the decision of the party," she said.
Reaction
Congress fumes at resolution, calls AAP BJP's B-team
Quite understandably, Delhi Congress reacted sharply. Ajay Maken tweeted, "Sh. Rajiv Gandhi sacrificed his life for the country. True colors of AAP have come out in the open! I have always believed that AAP is the B team of BJP! "AAP fielded candidates in Goa, Punjab, MP, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh just to cut the votes of Congress and help the BJP. (sic)"