In a dramatic turn of events, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced that he will resign within the next two days. This announcement follows his recent release from Tihar Jail, where he was held after being implicated in a corruption case linked to the contentious liquor policy. His release came after the Supreme Court granted him bail, marking a pivotal moment for both Kejriwal and his party, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
BJP’s Reaction: Accusations of a PR Stunt
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) quickly denounced Kejriwal’s announcement as nothing more than a “public relations stunt.” Pradeep Bhandari, a national spokesperson for the BJP, emphasized that Kejriwal’s move was a desperate attempt to salvage his image among Delhi voters, who now perceive him as a corrupt leader. “Today, the Aam Aadmi Party is recognized as a corrupt organization across India,” Bhandari stated, asserting that Kejriwal is grappling with a damaged reputation.
Pushback From the BJP
According to BJP sources, Kejriwal should have resigned long ago. Analysts within the party indicated that his resignation came about as a reaction to growing public discontent. Bhandari went on to express their views, stating, “Some politicians resign to gain public sympathy when faced with accountability. Kejriwalโs resignation reflects the people’s anger toward him.” The BJP believes they are well-positioned for the upcoming elections in Delhi, further fueling their criticisms.
Comparisons to Past Political Figures
Bhandari’s comments included a comparison to Sonia Gandhi’s past strategies, suggesting that Kejriwal’s actions are reminiscent of when the Congress leader was accused of influencing government decisions behind the scenes. This remark added another layer of criticism against Kejriwal’s decision-making process.
Congress’s Response: Dismissal of Kejriwal’s Legitimacy
The Congress party was equally dismissive of Kejriwal’s intentions. Party leader Sandeep Dixit labeled the announcement a mere “drama,” suggesting that Kejriwal’s time as Chief Minister has effectively ended. Dixit highlighted the unusual nature of having conditions imposed by the Supreme Court, indicating that such measures had never been applied to any other Chief Minister before, suggesting a significant lack of trust.
Legal Implications and Public Image
There are concerns that Kejriwal could tamper with evidence, which has led to unprecedented restrictions placed upon him. Dixit pointed out, “The Supreme Court seems to be treating him more like a criminal than a legitimate leader.โ This reflects growing worries about Kejriwal’s credibility and governance.
Conclusion: Political Strategies and Public Perception
As the political landscape in Delhi continues to evolve, Kejriwal’s resignation announcement raises important questions about his leadership and the broader implications for the Aam Aadmi Party’s future. The reactions from both the BJP and Congress demonstrate a united front against what they perceive as a corrupt administration. The next few days will be critical in shaping public opinion and determining the political future of Delhi.
