Arvind Kejriwal Announces Resignation Amid Political Turmoil: Politicians React

In a dramatic political development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced his resignation just days after being granted bail by the Supreme Court in the controversial Delhi liquor policy case. Kejriwal, who has been at the center of a high-profile legal battle, stated that he will step down within two days and will only return to the chief minister’s chair after the people of Delhi give him their mandate in the next election. This announcement has sent shockwaves through political circles, prompting strong reactions from leaders across parties.

Kejriwal’s Announcement and Supreme Court Bail Conditions

During a press conference held at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) headquarters, Kejriwal declared, “I will resign in two days and will not sit on the chief minister’s chair until the people pronounce their verdict.” He has demanded early assembly elections in Delhi, to be held alongside the Maharashtra elections in November. The elections for the Delhi Legislative Assembly were originally scheduled for February 2025, but Kejriwal’s call for early polls signals a strategic move amidst mounting pressure.

This announcement follows his recent release from Tihar Jail, where he had been held in connection with the liquor policy case. The Supreme Court granted him bail on the condition that he would not visit the Chief Minister’s Office or the Delhi Secretariat until further notice. The court observed that while the investigation is ongoing, the prolonged imprisonment constituted an “unjust deprivation of liberty” but maintained that there were no procedural irregularities in his arrest.

Political Reactions

BJP’s Response

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was quick to criticize Kejriwal’s resignation announcement, accusing him of using this moment as a public relations exercise. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari called it a “PR stunt,” asserting, “If Kejriwal was serious about his accountability, he would have resigned the moment the allegations surfaced, not after being granted bail.” Bhandari went on to claim that Kejriwal’s actions are a calculated effort to regain control of the public narrative and distract from the ongoing corruption investigation.

Manjinder Singh Sirsa, a senior BJP leader, took to Twitter, accusing Kejriwal of stepping down under pressure rather than voluntarily. He further speculated that the resignation was a move to make way for Kejriwal’s wife, Sunita Kejriwal, as the next Chief Minister of Delhi. “This is not a sacrifice but a planned strategy to save face,” Sirsa tweeted, further stoking the political debate.

Congress’ Criticism

The Congress party, too, expressed skepticism about Kejriwal’s resignation. Sandeep Dikshit, a senior Congress leader and son of former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, remarked, “This is a long-overdue decision. Kejriwal should have resigned the moment he was arrested.” Dikshit emphasized that the resignation, following bail, indicates that Kejriwal is in a defensive mode and trying to build a sympathetic image for himself before the public.

Adding to the chorus of criticism, Devender Yadav, a Congress leader from Delhi, stated, “This is the first time a Chief Minister is being granted bail with such stringent conditions. The court’s decision to prevent him from returning to office suggests serious concerns about tampering with evidence.” He also pointed out that Kejriwal’s push for early elections is a move to evade greater scrutiny of the AAP’s policies, particularly the liquor policy that has drawn significant controversy.

AAP’s Defense

Amidst the backlash, Kejriwal’s own party leaders rallied in his defense. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann called Kejriwal’s decision “revolutionary,” emphasizing that it demonstrates his commitment to honesty and transparency. Mann praised Kejriwal’s leadership, asserting that the AAP chief is confident of winning back the trust of the people in a fair election.

Mann stated, “Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation shows his belief in the people of Delhi. He is ready to put his position on the line, a true leader who serves the people’s mandate and not his own interests.”

Early Elections: A Political Gamble?

Kejriwal’s demand for early elections in November has sparked widespread debate. Many believe this is a strategic move to gain a fresh mandate and outmaneuver his political rivals. By resigning and calling for early polls, Kejriwal aims to turn the narrative in his favor, presenting himself as a leader willing to step down rather than cling to power amidst controversy.

However, this gambit also comes with risks. If early elections are granted and the AAP fails to secure a clear majority, it could mark a significant shift in Delhi’s political landscape. Both the BJP and Congress are gearing up for the possibility of early elections, and their criticisms suggest they are preparing to capitalize on Kejriwal’s legal and political challenges.

Looking Ahead

As Delhi braces for political uncertainty, the focus now shifts to the Election Commission and whether early polls will be granted. Kejriwal’s decision to resign has intensified the political discourse in the national capital, with parties sharpening their strategies for the coming months.

While Kejriwal remains confident in his ability to return to power, the reactions from political leaders suggest that the road ahead will be anything but smooth. The political battle over the Delhi Chief Minister’s resignation is far from over, with each party vying for control over the narrative as Delhi prepares for the next election, whether it happens in November or in February as scheduled.

The people of Delhi now await further developments, with the political future of the city hanging in the balance.