The Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann disassociated AAP from the allegations that some of its leaders were justifying the movement if not the demand of Khalistan.
Mann said people of Punjab are concerned about unemployment, drug addiction, polluted air and ground water and deteriorating law and order.
Pakistan's ISI and several radical units are allegedly making the Sikh Referendum-2020 movement and especially the August 12 convention in London as a rallying platform for the demand of Khalistan, a separate Sikh state, besides seeking international attention for justice to 1984 Sikh riots accused and killing of innocent youths.
The AAP had suffered debacle in the Assembly elections 2017 after its national chief Arvind Kejriwal had allegedly stayed at the house of an ex-Khalistani terrorist.
Indicating his readiness to take over the reins of the party, Mann said he will soon announce his decision on accepting the position of the state party convener. "I had resigned from the post after Arvind ji apologised to former Akali minister Bikram Singh Majithia on accusing him of drugs smuggling. I will have a meeting with Arvind ji soon to seek clarification on his action and if convinced I will take over the post."
He added, "Otherwise also, I am in the state only as an active volunteer and I will not let anyone break this party, which came up as per aspirations of the people."
Mann admitted that the party was in crisis and unstable. When pointed out the party has changed six conveners and three Leaders of Opposition so far, which reflects instability and mistrust, Mann said the party is still in the process of churning. "Please remember, it took the BJP more than two decades to win some seats. Our party is just six years old and already it has formed government twice in Delhi and has 20 MLAs and four MPs from Punjab."
He admitted the party made several mistakes. "All parties make mistakes, we too made some, but we are trying to move forward and volunteers are with us."
