On April 17, 2025, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted a search at the residence of Durgesh Pathak, the former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA, over alleged violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). The case against Pathak, who is currently serving as AAP’s Gujarat co-incharge, involves irregularities concerning foreign contributions. This development has stirred up political tensions, with AAP accusing the BJP-led government of misusing central agencies to target the party.

According to officials, the CBI initiated a probe into the matter based on suspicions that foreign contributions were being misused in violation of the FCRA. The law, which is meant to regulate the flow of foreign funds to Indian political parties and organizations, prohibits certain types of foreign donations to ensure that foreign entities do not influence India’s political processes. This investigation could have significant ramifications for AAP, as it raises questions about the party's funding sources and adherence to the regulatory framework.

In response to the raid, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh strongly criticized the central government, claiming that the BJP is attempting to suppress the Aam Aadmi Party through the use of central agencies. Singh, in a tweet on X, accused the Modi government of launching a “dirty game” against AAP, particularly in light of Pathak’s new role as Gujarat co-incharge for the party. He also alleged that the timing of the raid is suspicious, especially as AAP’s influence in Gujarat grows.

“The BJP's dirty game starts again. CBI has reached the house of Gujarat’s co-incharge @ipathak25. Modi Government has tried every trick to destroy @AamAadmiParty but still, there is no peace. BJP's condition in Gujarat is bad. As soon as @ipathak25 was made co-incharge of Gujarat, CBI was sent to threaten him,” Sanjay Singh posted on X.

This political standoff highlights the growing tensions between AAP and BJP, especially in Gujarat, where AAP is making significant inroads. AAP’s rise in Gujarat, a traditionally BJP-dominated state, has been a source of concern for the ruling party. The timing of the CBI raid is seen as part of the larger battle between the two parties as they prepare for elections and a potential shift in Gujarat's political landscape.

While the CBI’s investigation into Pathak's alleged foreign funding violations continues, it is crucial to note the broader implications of such political maneuvers. AAP has faced similar allegations in the past, but the current raid comes at a time when AAP’s Gujarat influence is growing. Many political observers believe that this is an attempt by the BJP to destabilize AAP’s momentum in the state.

The CBI raid and the allegations of FCRA violations have brought the issue of foreign funding regulation back into focus. This case will likely shape the narrative surrounding AAP's funding sources and its commitment to complying with Indian laws. However, AAP is expected to continue challenging the BJP’s tactics, and this raid will likely become a pivotal moment in the ongoing political battle between the two parties.

As investigations unfold, both parties will continue to accuse each other of using government institutions for political gains, setting the stage for more dramatic confrontations in the future. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for AAP, especially in its bid to expand its presence in Gujarat and other states.

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