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

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.

(With inputs from agencies.)