AAP MLA Raman Arora has been arrested by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau in connection with a major corruption case involving bogus municipal notices and extortion. Get the full details here.
Jalandhar, May 23, 2025 — In a major development that has shaken Punjab politics, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Jalandhar Central, Raman Arora, was arrested today by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) in connection with an ongoing corruption probe. The arrest, which reportedly took place while Arora was visiting a local temple, is linked to the case involving former Assistant Town Planner (ATP) Sukhdev Vashisht.
VB Links Arora to Bogus Notices and Extortion
Sources close to the Vigilance Bureau have revealed that Raman Arora allegedly collaborated with Vashisht to issue fake municipal notices and extort money from unsuspecting citizens and business owners. This follows the arrest of Vashisht last week, who is believed to have confessed to working at the behest of the AAP legislator.
According to insiders, the illegal operation involved creating fake zoning or demolition notices, which were then used as pressure tactics to extract bribes in exchange for “settlements.” The VB suspects this racket may have siphoned off significant sums over the last year.
Raid Conducted at MLA’s Residence
Shortly after the arrest, a Vigilance Bureau team conducted a thorough raid at Arora’s residence in Jalandhar. Several documents and electronic devices were seized, which are now being examined for further leads. Officials are tight-lipped about the findings but confirmed that the evidence could help trace the money trail and identify other potential beneficiaries.
Security Withdrawal Hinted at Impending Action
Interestingly, Raman Arora’s official security detail was withdrawn 10 days ago by a government order. The MLA, who previously had 14 security personnel assigned to him, lost his protection amid growing whispers of an imminent crackdown.
Political analysts now believe the withdrawal was a clear indication that the noose was tightening around the lawmaker. “This arrest did not come out of the blue. There were signs that the government was distancing itself,” said a senior Punjab political observer.
AAP Faces Tough Questions
With this arrest, the Aam Aadmi Party — already under scrutiny over governance issues — faces yet another credibility challenge. While party leaders are yet to issue an official statement, political opponents are seizing the moment to question AAP’s much-publicized stand on corruption.
Congress spokesperson Harpal Gill said, “AAP came to power with the promise of clean governance. Today, their own MLA is behind bars for corruption. This is hypocrisy at its worst.”
What’s Next?
As the investigation deepens, more arrests or revelations may follow. The Vigilance Bureau is reportedly looking into whether other municipal officials or political figures were complicit in the racket.
For now, Raman Arora remains in VB custody and is expected to be produced in court tomorrow. The legal team representing Arora has refused to comment on the matter.
More details are awaited as this high-stakes probe unfolds.