New Delhi, September 22 2024: Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, accusing him of using central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to break up political parties and topple opposition governments. Kejriwal directed his questions not only at the BJP but also at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), asking whether the organization condoned such political practices.
During his first public meeting, titled ‘Janata Ki Adalat,’ since resigning from the post of Chief Minister, Kejriwal posed five direct questions to RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat. Speaking at Jantar Mantar, he said, “With all due respect, I want to ask Mohan Bhagwat ji: is it right for Modi ji to break parties and bring down governments by using threats or lures with the ED and CBI? Modi ji has welcomed into his party many corrupt leaders whom he previously called corrupt. Do you agree with this kind of politics?”
Kejriwal, who has often been critical of the BJP’s association with the RSS, added, “The BJP was born from the RSS. It is the RSS’s responsibility to guide the BJP. Have you ever stopped Modi ji from engaging in such wrongdoings?”
Nadda’s Comments Add Fuel to the Fire
Kejriwal also referred to remarks made by BJP National President JP Nadda during a previous interview. Nadda had said, “In the beginning, we were less capable and needed the RSS. Today, we have grown, and the BJP runs itself.” Kejriwal questioned whether this attitude showed a “displeasure towards the motherly institution” of the RSS and asked Bhagwat if Nadda’s statement had hurt the organization.
Further, Kejriwal addressed the issue of BJP leaders’ retirement policies, claiming there is inconsistency in how it is applied. “You made a rule that leaders will retire after the age of 75, but now Amit Shah is saying this won’t apply to Modi ji. Why was this rule imposed on Advani ji but not on Modi ji?” he asked.
A Test of Integrity Ahead of Delhi Polls
As the Delhi Assembly elections approach, Kejriwal described the polls as an “agni pariksha” (trial by fire) for him, urging voters to reject him if they believed he was dishonest.
Kejriwal also announced his plans to leave the official Chief Minister’s residence after the “shraddh” period during Navratri. He expressed his intention to live among the public, stating that many people had offered him accommodation.
The upcoming elections in Delhi are expected to be a heated contest, with Kejriwal’s sharp criticism of both the BJP and the RSS marking the beginning of what could be an intense campaign season.
