'No ulta-seedha questions': Avadh Ojha's BBC interview allegedly cut short by AAP worker, video goes viral

A BBC Hindi interview with newly joined Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) member and UPSC educator Avadh Ojha was allegedly stopped midway at the party's Delhi office on Thursday. Ojha, a former classroom instructor who transitioned to YouTube coaching, joined AAP after speculation about joining BJP or Congress, and reports of being denied Lok Sabha tickets by both. As per a video released by BBC, the interruption occurred when reporter questioned Ojha about his past praise for BJP and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Controversial question triggers interruption

The interview took a turn when BBC reporter Anshul Singh asked Ojha whether he would continue to praise BJP leader Yogi Adityanath and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, given their rivalry with the AAP. Ojha, known for appreciating various leaders in his online videos, responded by explaining that recognizing others’ achievements is a positive trait. He cited the example of Sachin Tendulkar praising Brian Lara’s cricketing performances.

However, the discussion was interrupted by an AAP representative, who was heard saying, “I had told you not to ask any ulta-seedha (odd) question. Stop this.” Singh responded by asserting, “I was just asking a question. Sir, it’s very normal.”

Ojha’s response and exit

When Singh sought clarification from Ojha, asking if the question was objectionable, Ojha replied, “Bhaiyya dekho, I will tell you. The party will decide the line. This is what these people will decide.” Ojha then removed his microphone, ending the interview.

BBC Hindi alleges interference

In the description of the interview video uploaded on YouTube, BBC News Hindi stated that AAP functionaries stopped the recording and did not allow the conversation to conclude.