AAP announces nationwide protest against Kejriwal’s arrest, invites INDIA bloc to join

AAP leader Gopal Rai has declared a national protest today in protest to the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over corruption allegations tied to the city’s liquor policy. Describing the arrest as an assault on democracy, Rai emphasized, “The BJP’s actions, involving agencies to arrest Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, represent a direct attack on democratic values.”

Rai announced, “We are organizing a protest at 10 am tomorrow against the BJP in light of the ED’s arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.” He added that the protest is open to anyone opposing authoritarian rule, inviting broad participation.

Atishi, another AAP leader, highlighted that the Congress and members of the INDIA bloc have pledged their support for the movement. Protests have already commenced, with AAP activists demonstrating in Ernakulam against the ED’s actions.

Senior AAP figures, including Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, are also detained in connection with the excise policy case, adding to the party’s grievances. Despite Kejriwal’s appeal to the Supreme Court against his arrest, no immediate hearing was granted.

Atishi informed the press, “An application has been filed in the Supreme Court against the unlawful arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. We expect the Supreme Court to uphold democratic principles.” She also raised questions about the investigation’s timing, suggesting political motives behind Kejriwal’s detention, especially with looming Lok Sabha elections where Kejriwal is viewed as a significant challenger to PM Modi.

The arrest of BRS leader K Kavitha, linked to the excise policy probe, further indicates the political tensions surrounding the case. AAP vows to persist in their struggle, with Atishi asserting, “We will advance Arvind Kejriwal’s fight.”

Support for Kejriwal has surged among INDIA bloc parties, criticizing the BJP’s use of the ED against opposition leaders. CPI(M)’s Sitaram Yechury and NCP chief Sharad Pawar have voiced strong opposition to Kejriwal’s arrest, seeing it as an unwarranted use of power by the BJP, with Pawar stating, “INDIA stands united against this unconstitutional action against Arvind Kejriwal.”