New Delhi, May 24: In a candid interview with the Indian Express, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal opened up about his recent incarceration, the current political climate, and the future of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Kejriwal, who is the first sitting Chief Minister to be jailed, shared his reflections and outlined his concerns about the state of democracy in India under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government.
Kejriwal described the nation as “moving towards dictatorship” and accused the BJP of using the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to unjustly target opposition leaders, including himself and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren. He argued that the law has been weaponized to arrest individuals on suspicion, reversing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
AAP Targeted by BJP
Kejriwal asserted that the BJP’s focus on AAP is due to the party’s rapid rise and its potential to challenge BJP on a national scale. He cited the successes of AAP in Delhi and Punjab as evidence of their effective governance in education and healthcare, which resonates with voters.
“The BJP aims to crush AAP before it grows,” Kejriwal said, explaining that his arrest was intended to weaken the party. However, he claimed that instead of fracturing, AAP has grown more resilient and united in response to these pressures.
Running the Government from Jail
Discussing the logistics of running a government while incarcerated, Kejriwal made it clear that he would not resign from his post as Chief Minister. He believes that stepping down would set a dangerous precedent, enabling the BJP to topple other opposition governments by imprisoning their leaders.
“If I resign today, they will topple Mamata Banerjee’s, Pinarayi Vijayan’s governments tomorrow,” he warned. Kejriwal vowed to continue fighting for democracy, even if it means governing from behind bars, pending court provisions to facilitate his duties.
Speculation on BJP’s Future
On the topic of BJP’s internal dynamics, Kejriwal speculated about a potential succession battle within the party. He suggested that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may retire soon, paving the way for Home Minister Amit Shah to succeed him – an outcome he believes is not universally accepted within BJP ranks.
Lok Sabha Election Predictions
Kejriwal offered his assessment of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, predicting that the BJP might fall short of a majority due to rising unemployment, inflation, and perceptions of dictatorial tendencies. He estimated the BJP would secure fewer than 220 seats, with the opposition INDIA bloc possibly reaching 300.
Concerns Over Democratic Safeguards
Kejriwal voiced concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions under BJP rule, citing compromised investigative agencies, a pressured judiciary, and a biased Election Commission. He warned that a third term for Modi could lead to the complete dismantling of democratic safeguards and a shift towards authoritarian governance.
Conclusion
As India approaches a crucial electoral period, Kejriwal’s statements highlight significant tensions and challenges in the political landscape. His views underscore the gravity of the situation as seen by Opposition leaders and set the stage for a contentious and pivotal election.
