Fri Feb 28 06:39:18 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Assembly Suspension Sparks Outcry: AAP Leader Calls it Blow to Democracy

**NEW DELHI, Feb 28, 2025** – Atishi, Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, has condemned the three-day suspension of 21 Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs as an attack on democratic principles. In a letter to Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, Atishi described the suspension as “injustice” and a “severe blow to democratic values.”

The suspension, which followed a protest against the alleged removal of B.R. Ambedkar’s portrait from the Chief Minister’s office, saw 21 of 22 AAP MLAs removed from the assembly. Only Okhla MLA Amanatullah Khan, who was absent during the protest, was spared. The suspension motion was moved by BJP Minister Parvesh Verma.

Atishi’s letter highlights the AAP MLAs’ chanting of “Jai Bhim” during Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena’s address, contrasting it with the lack of action against ruling party MLAs who chanted “Modi-Modi.” She argues that the suspension of the opposition for expressing their views is unacceptable.

Further fueling Atishi’s criticism was the alleged prevention of the suspended MLAs from peacefully protesting in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue within the assembly grounds. She contends this action violates their democratic rights and disrespects the mandate given by the people.

Atishi noted that even during his time as Leader of the Opposition, Speaker Gupta himself was allowed to protest on assembly grounds when suspended. She argues that this established precedent has been disregarded.

The clash between the BJP and AAP led to a two-day extension of the Assembly session, concluding on March 1. The incident continues to raise concerns about the state of democratic discourse within the Delhi Assembly.

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