AAP vs Lt Governor: Dispute Over 1.5-Crore Social Media Expenditure

Sources from Mr. Saxena’s office reminded AAP of the Rs 3,000 crore allegedly spent on advertising. Saurabh Bharadwaj, a Delhi minister and senior AAP leader, questioned the need for a tender to hire an agency to manage Mr. Saxena’s social media presence and image, given his “ornamental” post. Mr. Bharadwaj highlighted that the lieutenant governor’s position is meant to be symbolic and criticized the expenditure as a misuse of his office for political reasons, especially with the upcoming elections in mind. He also criticized Mr. Saxena’s social media presence, noting the lack of popularity and impact.

The response from Mr. Saxena’s office refuted Mr. Bharadwaj’s remarks, defending the decision to hire an agency for the lieutenant governor’s social media management. They also highlighted the significant advertising expenditure by the AAP and questioned their credibility to criticize such spending. The conflict between AAP and Mr. Saxena’s office comes shortly after AAP accused the lieutenant governor of inaction in addressing a shortage of doctors in Delhi hospitals. In response, the LG Secretariat criticized Mr. Bharadwaj’s performance, accusing him of baseless attacks on the lieutenant governor.

The exchange underscores the ongoing tensions between AAP and Mr. Saxena’s office, with both sides engaging in public criticism and defense of their actions and decisions.