Shift in Indian Politics: BJP Gains Ground as AAP Members Defect

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP party's standing in the upper house of parliament was bolstered by the defection of seven AAP lawmakers. This move may ease legislative processes for the government, with BJP now having 113 members in the Rajya Sabha. The defections include notable figures like Harbhajan Singh.

In a significant political development, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP has gained strength in the upper house of parliament after seven legislators from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) defected to join it, according to a parliamentary list released on Monday.

This shift potentially smooths the path for government legislation, with the BJP's tally in the Rajya Sabha now standing at 113 members, just 10 short of a simple majority in the 245-member chamber. Among the defectors is former cricketer Harbhajan Singh, raising questions about the AAP's leadership and integrity.

The move leaves the AAP with only three seats and poses challenges in Punjab, a stronghold for the AAP, where state polls are anticipated soon. Legal battles loom over corruption allegations against AAP leaders, though a New Delhi court recently declined to advance proceedings against some key figures.