– Abdul Bari Masoud
New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has alleged a “sinister conspiracy” behind the recent attack on its National Convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, providing video and photographic evidence to link the attackers with BJP leader Parvesh Verma. AAP leaders claim that the assailants, who have criminal records for robbery, theft, and attempted murder, reflect a dangerous pattern of politically motivated violence.
AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal criticised the BJP, saying, “They are resorting to violence because they are losing elections. My life is dedicated to the country and society, and we remain focused on public welfare despite these unprecedented attacks.”
Kejriwal described the incident as an example of an unprecedented level of violence in Delhi’s elections. He noted, “The kind of campaign and attempts to intimidate and harm opponents are unparalleled. However, our commitment to the welfare of the people will not waver.”
AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi addressed the media, detailing the attack. They identified Rahul alias ‘Shanky’ as one of the assailants, accusing him of being a close associate of BJP leader Parvesh Verma. Atishi stated, “Rahul, a hardened criminal with multiple charges including robbery and attempted murder, was clearly seen in the video of the attack. His ties to Parvesh Verma are evident in photos showing him actively campaigning alongside the BJP leader.”
Another identified attacker, Rohit Tyagi, also allegedly associated with Verma, has a history of serious criminal charges, including theft and attempted culpable homicide. A third individual, Sumit, was accused of participating in the attack, with records of dacoity and attempted murder during robberies.
AAP leaders claimed that the attack was orchestrated by the BJP, alleging that the Delhi Police, under the Union Home Ministry, was complicit. Atishi questioned, “Why has no action been taken against these individuals despite clear evidence? The Election Commission and Delhi Police are silent, raising doubts about their impartiality.”
Senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh accused BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, of fostering a climate of violence. He asserted, “This attack was a direct attempt to assassinate Arvind Kejriwal. The complicity of Delhi Police and the BJP leadership in this conspiracy is evident. These are not isolated incidents but part of a calculated strategy to silence Kejriwal.”
AAP demanded immediate arrests of the accused and action against BJP leaders allegedly involved in the conspiracy. Singh warned, “If institutions like the Election Commission fail to act, a grave incident is likely to occur. The evidence is clear, and the time for action is now.”
Despite the attack, AAP leaders reaffirmed their commitment to their campaign, stating that violence would not deter their focus on development and public welfare.
