TNFNew Delhi/ TNF
On September 22, 2024, Arvind Kejriwal, the leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), addressed a gathering at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, where he reflected on the significant anti-corruption movement of 2011 and his party’s unexpected success in the elections that followed. The rally served as a platform for Kejriwal to discuss his political journey, defend his integrity, and prepare for the upcoming Delhi elections, which he referred to as a crucial test of his honesty.
In his speech, Kejriwal emphasized that he is not driven by power or greed. Responding to accusations from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that he is corrupt, he expressed how these claims affect him personally. “It pains me when they call me a thief. I cannot live with such labels. My next election will be a test of my honesty. Only if I seem honest will I deserve your vote,” he stated firmly.
Kejriwal also took the opportunity to challenge the leadership of the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He posed five direct questions to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, asking why long-standing leaders like L.K. Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, and Kalraj Mishra were retired after 75 years in politics, yet Prime Minister Narendra Modi is exempt from such scrutiny. He demanded clarity on this apparent double standard, highlighting the importance of accountability in leadership.
The backdrop of this rally includes Kejriwal’s recent resignation as Chief Minister. On September 17, he stepped down after being granted bail in a case related to the controversial Delhi liquor policy. His resignation was unexpected, but he clarified that it was a decision based on principles. Following his resignation, AAP leader Atishi was appointed as the new Chief Minister on September 21, marking a significant transition in the party’s leadership.
Kejriwal reflected on the early days of the AAP and the 2011 anti-corruption movement, which was a pivotal moment in Indian politics. “I remember April 4, 2011, when the largest anti-corruption movement in independent India started here at Jantar Mantar. The government then was arrogant and challenged us, saying, ‘Show us by winning elections.’ We were small and lacked resources—money, muscle, and manpower. Yet, we fought and won. The people gave us a chance, and we formed a government based on honesty,” he recounted.
Throughout his tenure, Kejriwal has consistently argued that elections can be won through integrity. He passionately stated, “We have proven that honesty in elections is possible. We came to power in Delhi for ten years, managing the government while saving public funds. I did not come into politics to accumulate wealth.”
During his address, he reflected on the personal sacrifices he has made for his political beliefs. He revealed that he has not amassed any wealth during his time in office, claiming, “In ten years, I could have had ten bungalows and ten plots. But I have not taken anything for myself. When I leave my home, people are offering me money for a place to stay, but I refuse to accept it.” He indicated that he would leave his residence after the Shradh ceremony, planning to live among the people instead of in a government bungalow.
Kejriwal’s resignation and subsequent legal challenges have not deterred his spirit. He reiterated his commitment to integrity and stated, “I won’t return to power until I am cleared of all charges against me. My lawyers said the cases could take 8-10 years, so I decided to appeal to the people. The public will decide if I am honest or if those trying to send me to jail are the real culprits.”
The rally emphasized a strong connection between voters and their choice, framing the act of voting as one of faith. “Before pressing the button for the broom symbol, voters invoke the name of God. They believe they are voting for an honest government,” he said, underscoring the symbolism of the AAP’s broom logo as not just a party symbol but a representation of hope and trust in clean governance.
As the rally concluded, Kejriwal called upon the public to reflect on the upcoming elections. He urged them to consider the larger implications of their vote, not just for AAP but for the integrity of Indian politics as a whole. “This election is not just about me or my party; it is a reflection of your faith in honesty and integrity in governance. You need to decide whether I am corrupt or if those accusing me are the true wrongdoers,” he implored the crowd.
In a time when political trust is often questioned, Kejriwal’s rally sought to reinvigorate a commitment to clean politics. He left his supporters with a powerful message: that the future of Delhi—and perhaps the entire country—depends on the choices made at the ballot box. As the campaign heats up, Kejriwal’s call for honesty and integrity resonates as he prepares for what he calls his “fire test” in the upcoming elections.
