Santa Claus pollution video triggers FIR against AAP leaders; BJP says party ‘lacks seriousness’

A political controversy erupted in Delhi after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders were booked in connection with a Santa Claus-themed video on pollution, prompting sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Watch the video below:

Delhi Police has registered an FIR against AAP leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj, Sanjeev Jha, and Adil Ahmed Khan for allegedly hurting religious sentiments through a video skit showing men dressed as Santa Claus collapsing on a Delhi street.

The complaint was lodged after the video was shared on the leaders’ official social media handles on December 17 and 18. The clip, filmed in Connaught Place, portrayed Santa Claus as part of a political demonstration, triggering objections and prompting police action.
Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva accused AAP leaders of lacking seriousness and failing to maintain political dignity, stating that such actions risk hurting religious sentiments and creating unnecessary tension.

Reacting to the FIR, Sachdeva said that no individual or political party has the right to “play with the religious faith of anybody.” Emphasising the responsibility that comes with public life, he said politicians are expected to uphold dignity and focus on governance rather than theatrical gestures.

“The politics should be clean, about service, to take everybody along. But if you behave cheaply and do drama, then nobody will take you seriously,” Sachdeva said. He expressed surprise that leaders from a party that governed Delhi for 11 to 12 years were engaging in what he described as irresponsible conduct.

The BJP leader further stated that such remarks and visuals could contribute to social tension. “These things also create tension. An FIR has been registered, and the law will take its own course,” he said, adding that those making such comments must be prepared to face the consequences.

Sachdeva reiterated that public representatives must exercise restraint, particularly when addressing sensitive issues linked to faith or public sentiment. According to him, the controversy reflects poorly on the AAP’s approach to political discourse, especially given its long tenure in power in the national capital.

The FIR against AAP leaders comes amid heightened political rivalry in Delhi, with pollution remaining a contentious issue between the ruling party and the opposition. While the matter is now under investigation, the episode has further intensified the ongoing war of words between the BJP and the AAP.