A viral video showing Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Anil Jha Vats sitting in a vest and shorts while signing documents for constituents has triggered a political row in Delhi, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta publicly criticising the legislator and accusing him of failing to maintain the dignity expected of a public representative.

The controversy erupted after a video circulated widely on social media showing the Kirari MLA seated cross-legged on a chair, wearing a vest and shorts, while signing forms submitted by residents.

Several people, including women, could be seen waiting in a queue as the documents were processed. According to reports, the forms were linked to a Delhi government financial assistance scheme for women.

Referring to the video during the Monsoon Session of the Delhi Assembly, Rekha Gupta launched a sharp attack on the AAP legislator. The Chief Minister said elected representatives should maintain decorum, particularly when interacting with women constituents.

“Your behaviour is shameful. You should at least dress properly when women come to you to get their papers signed,” the chief minister said. “Tell them to get the signboard removed in such a situation. I saw their reel. Delhi’s people are questioning you. You should be ashamed. I have seen the recordings. This is not how a Vishakhyak (public representative) should behave,” she added.

Gupta also alleged that Jha made objectionable gestures during Assembly proceedings and said such conduct would not be tolerated. Speaking to reporters later, she said a complaint would be lodged at the appropriate level, adding that the dignity of women and the decorum of the House must be protected.

“The House is the supreme forum for democratic decorum and dignity. The uncivil behavior of the Aam Aadmi Party and their MLA will not be tolerated under any circumstances. A complaint will be lodged at the appropriate level in this regard,” she said.

The remarks sparked a fresh confrontation between the ruling BJP and the opposition AAP inside the Assembly.

Jha, however, rejected the allegations levelled against him. Responding to the Chief Minister’s accusations, he challenged her to produce evidence and denied making any objectionable gestures during the proceedings. “Let them show the video,” he said while dismissing the claims.

A three-time MLA from Kirari and currently the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, Jha has been a prominent face of the AAP in the House since the party moved to the opposition benches after the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.

(With inputs from PTI)