Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest over alleged bribery stirs political controversy ahead of India’s general elections, with claims of it being a political vendetta by opposition members.
Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi and a prominent opposition leader against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been incarcerated over allegations related to a bribery case concerning a liquor policy in Delhi. Kejriwal, who leads the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), is accused by the Enforcement Directorate (ED)—a body under Modi’s government—of accepting bribes from contractors. The arrest, which occurred in the lead-up to India’s general elections, has been criticized by opposition members as politically motivated, labelling it as a “political vendetta.”
The AAP forms a crucial part of the opposition alliance challenging Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the upcoming elections. Following his arrest, supporters have organized protests in Delhi and other northern cities, defending Kejriwal’s innocence and denouncing his detention as a “political conspiracy.” Despite facing charges, Kejriwal has not been found guilty of corruption by any court, and his party has announced he will continue to lead the Delhi administration from jail.
This development has raised alarms about the democratic practices in India, especially with the opposition accusing Modi of using the ED and tax demands to intimidate and suppress political rivals. Rahul Gandhi of the Congress party, speaking at a rally in New Delhi, warned against Modi’s alleged “match-fixing” tactics in the election, suggesting it could have severe repercussions for the country’s democracy.
Kejriwal’s ongoing detention, which has been extended for an additional two weeks, hampers his ability to participate actively in the election campaign. The ED’s claim of Kejriwal’s non-cooperation, notably his refusal to unlock his devices, citing the protection of confidential election strategy information, has added another layer to the controversy.
The international community, including countries like the US and Germany, as well as human rights organizations such as Amnesty International, have expressed concerns over the fairness of the impending elections and the targeting of political figures like Kejriwal. The situation has put a spotlight on India’s political climate, drawing criticisms and calls for a transparent electoral process. Amidst the turmoil, Sunita Kejriwal, Arvind Kejriwal’s wife, has remained optimistic, labeling her husband as a resilient figure amidst the adversity.
