In a significant move, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has unveiled its strategy for the upcoming Rajya Sabha nominations, marking a critical phase in the party’s political landscape. Swati Maliwal, the distinguished Chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) and a seasoned member of the AAP, has been chosen as the party’s latest nominee for the Rajya Sabha. This decision comes in the wake of crucial changes in the political scenario, with Sanjay Singh and N D Gupta also set to be renominated for their second terms.
The responsibility of nominating three individuals for the Rajya Sabha seats that are becoming vacant this month in Delhi rests on AAP’s shoulders. Notably, Sushil Gupta, the existing Rajya Sabha MP, has expressed his intention to redirect his focus toward electoral politics in Haryana. As the AAP in-charge for Haryana, which is poised to go to polls later this year, Gupta’s decision is being respected by the party leadership.
In a unique turn of events, a Delhi court has granted permission for Sanjay Singh to sign his renomination documents from jail. Singh, currently under arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a case related to the Delhi excise policy, holds the crucial position of being the AAP‘s UP in-charge. The party contends that Singh’s arrest is part of a dubious case designed to suppress his vocal criticism of the BJP government in the Upper House. Singh has also been a key figure in the party’s interactions with other Opposition parties and leaders in Parliament.
While initial considerations within the party hinted at the nomination of two new faces, apprehensions surrounding Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, potentially facing ED arrests prompted a rethink. The party aims to demonstrate unwavering support for leaders like Sanjay Singh, who are under investigation by the BJP through various agencies. Omitting Singh’s renomination could have been misconstrued as the party abandoning him during a challenging time.
According to the schedule set by the Election Commission of India (EC), January 9 is the deadline for submitting nominations for the Rajya Sabha. Subsequent to the nomination phase, scrutiny is scheduled for January 10, with the last date for the withdrawal of candidatures set for January 12. If necessary, a poll will be conducted on January 19, and the election process is expected to conclude by January 23.
Swati Maliwal, the nominee for the Rajya Sabha, brings with her a legacy of activism and advocacy for women’s rights and social causes. Her involvement in campaigns against violence towards women, her push for stringent laws, and her commitment to gender equality have been noteworthy. Since her appointment as the DCW Chairperson in 2015, Maliwal has played a pivotal role in addressing critical issues such as acid attacks, sexual harassment, and enhancing women’s safety in Delhi.
In conclusion, AAP’s nomination choices reflect a strategic approach to balance experience and fresh perspectives, all while standing firmly behind leaders facing challenging circumstances. The political landscape is set for interesting developments as the party navigates the intricate process of Rajya Sabha nominations and positions itself for the future.
