AAP expels Punjab MLA Sukhveer Singh Maiserkhana over criticism of government schools
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has expelled Maur MLA Sukhveer Singh Maiserkhana after he publicly raised concerns about teacher shortages and the condition of government schools in his constituency.
Maiserkhana, in a social media live session, alleged that several government schools in his constituency are operating with vacant teaching posts despite the issue being repeatedly brought to the attention of the Punjab government and senior party leaders.
The MLA became emotional while discussing the situation and said his own children study in a government school. He alleged that the school does not have adequate teaching staff.
Maiserkhana also highlighted the government school in Burj Sahima village, claiming that it meets the criteria for upgradation but that no action has been taken.
MLA alleges he was sidelined within party
The education issue was accompanied by broader complaints about his treatment within the AAP.
Maiserkhana claimed that despite helping strengthen the party at the grassroots level, he had repeatedly been sidelined and humiliated. He also alleged that a conspiracy was carried out against him during the Tarn Taran election.
According to the MLA, he was allegedly told that if he died or something happened to him, a member of his family would be given a party ticket. There is no independent confirmation of this allegation.
AAP takes disciplinary action
AAP subsequently expelled Maiserkhana from the party, accusing him of engaging in anti-party activities, spreading false rumours and attempting to damage the party’s image.
The MLA said he feared that speaking openly against the government and party leadership could lead to police action or a case being filed against him. However, he maintained that he would continue to raise issues affecting his constituents, even if it meant facing legal action or imprisonment.
Opposition attacks Bhagwant Mann government
Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia used Maiserkhana’s remarks to target Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP leader Manish Sisodia.
Majithia argued that the MLA’s allegations raised questions about the government’s claims regarding improvements in Punjab’s education system. He also criticised the government’s “Siksha Kranti” narrative, saying the reported teacher shortages were inconsistent with its claims of education reforms.