Ticket-for-Cash Row Rocks AAP in Surat Before Civic Polls

Surat | Gujarat — A day before the crucial municipal elections, a fresh political storm has erupted in Surat after serious allegations surfaced against a local functionary of the Aam Aadmi Party for allegedly demanding money in exchange for an election ticket.

A complaint registered at Sarthana Police Station accuses Ward No. 1–2 in-charge Om Prakash of demanding ₹18 lakh from a party supporter, triggering outrage and intensifying the political heat ahead of the Surat Municipal Corporation elections.

Viral Video Sparks Political Uproar

The controversy erupted after a video allegedly showing a money deal went viral on social media. Complainant Navneet Navadiya claimed the demand was made in the name of securing a party ticket for his wife, Lipsa Navadiya.

According to the complaint, the initial demand of ₹18 lakh was later negotiated down to ₹8 lakh. “We were told the ward was winnable and the money could be recovered within six months after becoming a corporator,” Navadiya alleged.

The deal, he said, was paid in instalments. “On March 25, ₹2.5 lakh was handed over in cash near Kiran Chowk. Later, additional amounts were paid via ATM withdrawals and cash. Despite this, more money was demanded repeatedly through WhatsApp calls,” he claimed.

Mandate Drama and Alleged Betrayal

Navadiya further alleged that despite accepting money, the party failed to give the promised ticket to his wife. In the final hours before nomination filing, he was reportedly assured that the mandate would be issued.

“The form was filled late at night, but during verification the mandate was declared invalid. Eventually, another candidate’s mandate was approved, leaving us cheated,” he said.

The incident has sparked intense debate about transparency and internal processes within political parties ahead of the polls.

Accused Missing, Police Begin Probe

Police have registered a complaint against Om Prakash and another accused, Akash Mishra, and launched an investigation based on call recordings and video evidence. Sources said the accused has switched off his phone and is currently untraceable.

A senior police official said, “We have begun the investigation and will take action based on evidence. No one will be spared if the allegations are proven.”