AAP condemns ED raids against MP Ashok Mittal, calls it ‘Political Vendetta’
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 15, 2026: The Enforcement Directorate’s searches at properties linked to Ashok Kumar Mittal have triggered a sharp political confrontation, with the Aam Aadmi Party accusing the Centre of using probe agencies to target opponents ahead of elections.
Reacting to the raids, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal said the move signalled the beginning of the BJP’s election campaign in Punjab. He asserted that the people of the state would “give a befitting reply” to such actions.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann termed the ED action a “typical” tactic, alleging it reflected the Centre’s approach of exerting pressure through investigative agencies.
Senior party leader Manish Sisodia also criticised the move, claiming that central agencies are often deployed ahead of elections, followed by political mobilisation at the national level.
Meanwhile, Delhi AAP chief Saurabh Bharadwaj questioned the sequence of developments, linking the raids to recent internal party changes, including Mittal replacing Raghav Chadha as Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha. He also raised concerns over the Centre granting enhanced security cover to Chadha.
Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly Atishi said the party would not be intimidated, asserting that AAP leaders and workers remain committed to their political stand despite pressure.
The ED action has intensified political rhetoric in Punjab, with AAP framing it as part of a broader strategy ahead of upcoming electoral contests.