New Delhi - The Delhi Congress today released an audio clip purportedly featuring an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA criticizing the party's now-withdrawn excise policy. The party alleges the clip reveals the policy was implemented to fund AAP election campaigns in other states.

The audio clip, shared by Congress National Spokesman Pawan Khera, allegedly features AAP’s Narela MLA Sharad Chauhan expressing his opposition to the excise policy during a discussion with then Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. Chauhan is purportedly heard stating that he objected to the policy, but Sisodia overrode him, arguing the funds were necessary to contest elections in Gujarat, Goa, and Punjab. Chauhan further notes that funding for the Delhi elections was currently being sourced from Punjab.

The Congress party has seized upon the clip, with Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee President Devender Yadav stating that it exposes the AAP's "liquor scam." Yadav emphasized that the party was the first to expose the alleged scam and file a related FIR, which ultimately led to the arrest and subsequent release of AAP leaders.

Yadav alleged that the Rs 2,000 crore liquor scam enabled the AAP central leadership to offer money-making opportunities to its close associates. He also criticized the AAP's excise policy for its impact on women and youth, alleging that it has led to increased addiction. Yadav specifically condemned the AAP government's alleged promotion of liquor sales, including a scheme that offered two free bottles of liquor with the purchase of one. He contrasted this with the AAP's promise of transparent governance.

The Congress party also criticized Sisodia, with Khera stating that Delhi voters now do not want a “manager” of liquor scam to provide education to their children.