Concerns are mounting among political observers and opposition parties over what they allege is the misuse of Punjab’s state machinery and resources by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leadership, particularly under the direction of former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal.
Critics also allege that Kejriwal and senior AAP leaders have placed individuals loyal to the party, many from Delhi, into influential positions within Punjab’s government and semi-government institutions. These appointments have raised questions about administrative autonomy and local representation.
One of the focal points of criticism is the reported involvement of former Delhi ministers, including Manish Sisodia and Satyendra Jain, both of whom have faced legal scrutiny and stepped down from active positions in Delhi. Despite their electoral defeats and ongoing controversies, they are allegedly being granted significant influence in Punjab’s administrative and advisory roles.
Another major concern revolves around the use of Punjab’s state funds and facilities. Opposition leaders and political analysts claim that Arvind Kejriwal has frequently used state-sponsored air travel—including helicopters and chartered flights—for political campaigning and party events in Punjab. These travels, reportedly costing lakhs of rupees, have drawn criticism for their burden on the public exchequer.
While state-sponsored travel for official business is not uncommon, the lack of transparency about the nature and purpose of these visits has fueled speculation that public money is being misused for political benefits.Significant expenditure on non-elected party functionaries has also been flagged. Allegedly, individuals like Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain, despite not holding any current constitutional office, are being accommodated with government resources, including housing, staff, and security arrangements—all funded by the Punjab government.
The Aam Aadmi Party has consistently defended its actions, claiming that its leadership is working in coordination with Punjab’s elected government for the benefit of its people. Party representatives argue that experienced individuals from Delhi are being brought in to support governance and replicate successful models in education, healthcare, and public services. They also insist that any official travel or expenditures are done in accordance with law and protocol.
Punjab’s opposition parties, including the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Congress, and BJP, have demanded an inquiry into these appointments and expenditures. They allege that such moves undermine Punjab’s democratic structure and amount to a de facto remote control of the state from Delhi.Several RTIs (Right to Information) have reportedly been filed seeking details of expenses incurred by the Punjab government on travel and hospitality for non-elected AAP leaders.While AAP’s supporters praise its efforts to bring reforms to Punjab, growing criticism over centralization of power, financial opacity, and the sidelining of local leadership remains a politically volatile issue. Transparency, official audits, and public disclosure of expenditures and appointments will likely play a key role in resolving these controversies.