IN the wake of his release from Tihar Jail on May 10, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been fervently active, making a series of emphatic statements that have reverberated across the political landscape. His impassioned speeches and bold claims have sparked widespread attention and debate.
Last Chance to Save Democracy in India
Kejriwal’s first remarks upon release were a powerful plea to the nation: “I have a request, we have to save the country from dictatorship. I am fighting against it with all might.” This statement set the tone for his subsequent actions and speeches, positioning him as a defender of democratic values.
Accuses BJP leadership of following ’One Nation, Open Leader’ agenda
The AAP leader didn’t mince words when he accused the BJP of harboring a ‘One Nation, One Leader’ agenda. He warned that the incarceration of opposition leaders would become the norm if the BJP were to win the national elections, stating, “You include all the thieves in your party and send Kejriwal to jail, this is not a fight against corruption…By arresting Kejriwal, they have given the message that if Kejriwal is arrested they will arrest anyone. The name of this mission is ‘One Nation One Leader.’”
People Reject NDA, Claims INDIA bloc’s Victory
Speaking with conviction from the AAP headquarters, Kejriwal expressed unwavering confidence in the INDIA bloc’s victory, predicting a decline in the NDA’s seats and asserting, “Their government is not being formed after June 4. Their seats are decreasing everywhere… It is also being speculated that they are getting 220-230 seats. INDIA government is being formed at the centre.”
Amit Shah to replace Narendra Modi?
Kejriwal raised questions about the BJP’s leadership succession, asking, “I ask BJP, who is your PM candidate? If they form govt, they will first tackle (UP CM) Yogiji. Then, Modiji’s favorite, Amit Shah, will be made PM. So I want to alert the country's people that Modiji is not asking for votes for himself; he is seeking votes to make Amit Shah PM. I want to ask Modiji and Amit Shahji, who will fulfil Modiji’s guarantees. Will Amit Shah do it?”
End of Yogi Adityanath?
Kejriwal claimed that a leadership change in Uttar Pradesh was imminent, accusing the BJP of systematically sidelining its veteran leaders and suggesting that Yogi Adityanath would be next.
INDIA bloc: Political Transformation
During a roadshow, Kejriwal spoke of a historic moment, asserting, “It is a historic moment. The history is taking a turn. If the INDIA bloc forms government, the direction and fate of the country will change.”
AAP’s 10 Guarantees
Kejriwal presented a list of ten guarantees, promising transformative policies such as free electricity, education, healthcare, and job creation, which he pledged to implement if the INDIA bloc were elected.
Authoritarian governance
"These people want to bring dictatorship in India like Russia and North Korea. Where elections are not held. Only one person runs the dictatorship. If you do not want this to happen, vote against BJP this time," Kejriwal said.
In a stark comparison, Kejriwal likened India’s current political climate to the authoritarian regimes, emphasising the need for vigilance and action.
Appeals people to Support AAP
Kejriwal implored the electorate to support the AAP and the India alliance, framing it as a way to safeguard his freedom and continue his work for the people.
BJP wants to stop the welfare of Delhi
"I've been out for 20 days, but if you press the broom button hard, I won't have to go back to jail. They sent me to jail only because I worked for the welfare of the people of Delhi. The BJP people could not tolerate my work in the interest of the people and so they sent me to jail," said Kejriwal.
