Arvind Kejriwal is a prominent Indian politician and the founder of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), a political party known for its anti-corruption stance and focus on grassroots democracy. Kejriwal's rise to prominence, along with the AAP's emergence, represents a significant shift in Indian politics, particularly in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, where the party has enjoyed considerable success. In this comprehensive write-up, we will delve into the life and career of Arvind Kejriwal, the founding and ideology of the Aam Aadmi Party, their achievements, challenges, and the impact they have had on Indian politics.
Early Life and Education
Arvind Kejriwal was born on August 16, 1968, in Siwani, a small town in Haryana, India. He hails from a middle-class family, with his father, Gobind Ram Kejriwal, working as an electrical engineer, and his mother, Gita Devi, being a homemaker. Kejriwal completed his schooling from Campus School in Hisar and later pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, one of India's premier engineering institutions. After completing his engineering degree, he worked for a brief period in the Tata Steel Company before deciding to pursue higher studies.
Kejriwal went on to study at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta, where he obtained a degree in Management. His educational background in engineering and management laid the foundation for his future endeavors in social activism and politics, providing him with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of governance and public administration. ( Source Open Google )
Career in Civil Services
Following his education, Arvind Kejriwal joined the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) in 1995 after clearing the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). He served in various capacities within the IRS, working primarily in the Income Tax Department. During his tenure as a civil servant, Kejriwal gained firsthand experience of the bureaucratic hurdles, corruption, and inefficiencies plaguing the Indian administrative system. These experiences would later shape his views on governance and inspire him to take up the fight against corruption.
Activism and Anti-Corruption Movement
Kejriwal's journey into activism began during his tenure as a civil servant when he became involved in grassroots movements aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in government. In 2000, he took a sabbatical from his government job to work with social activist Aruna Roy and her organization, the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), in Rajasthan. During his time with MKSS, Kejriwal actively participated in campaigns for the Right to Information (RTI) Act, which aimed to empower citizens by providing them access to government information.
In 2006, Kejriwal was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Emergent Leadership in recognition of his efforts to empower the poorest citizens of India. The following year, he played a crucial role in the formation of the Parivartan NGO, which focused on addressing corruption at the grassroots level in Delhi. Through Parivartan, Kejriwal and his team successfully exposed several cases of corruption in public service delivery, including in the issuance of ration cards and electricity bills.
Formation of Aam Aadmi Party
Inspired by his experiences in activism and disillusioned with the existing political system, Arvind Kejriwal, along with like-minded individuals, founded the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on November 26, 2012. The party's name, which translates to "Common Man's Party" in English, reflects its commitment to representing the interests of the ordinary citizens of India. AAP emerged as a response to widespread public frustration with corruption, inefficiency, and the lack of accountability among traditional political parties.
The formation of AAP marked a significant departure from conventional politics in India. Instead of relying on established political leaders or wealthy donors, the party relied heavily on grassroots activism and volunteerism to build its support base. Arvind Kejriwal and his colleagues leveraged social media and door-to-door campaigning to connect with voters and spread their message of clean governance and inclusive development.
Political Journey and Electoral Success
AAP made its electoral debut in the 2013 Delhi Legislative Assembly elections, where it stunned political observers by winning 28 out of 70 seats. Despite falling short of a majority, the party formed a minority government with outside support from the Indian National Congress. Arvind Kejriwal was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Delhi on December 28, 2013.
However, Kejriwal's first stint as Chief Minister was short-lived, as he resigned from his post after just 49 days in office, citing the inability to pass the Jan Lokpal Bill, an anti-corruption legislation, due to opposition from other political parties. The decision to resign was met with mixed reactions, with some praising Kejriwal's integrity and commitment to his principles, while others criticized it as a hasty retreat from governance.
In the subsequent 2015 Delhi Assembly elections, AAP secured a landslide victory, winning 67 out of 70 seats and securing an unprecedented mandate from the electorate. Arvind Kejriwal was once again sworn in as the Chief Minister of Delhi, leading a majority government this time. The party's overwhelming victory was attributed to its focus on issues affecting the common man, such as healthcare, education, and access to basic services.
Policy Initiatives and Governance
During his tenure as Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal and his government implemented several key policy initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Delhi residents. One of the flagship programs of the AAP government was the Mohalla Clinic initiative, which sought to provide quality healthcare services to underserved communities through a network of neighborhood clinics. These clinics offered free consultations, diagnostics, and essential medicines, making healthcare more accessible to the urban poor.
Another notable initiative was the transformation of government schools in Delhi through the "Chunauti 2018" and "Mission Buniyaad" programs. These initiatives focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing the quality of education, and promoting accountability in the public education system. As a result, Delhi government schools witnessed a significant improvement in learning outcomes and student enrollment rates.
The AAP government also took steps to address the issue of air pollution in the national capital, implementing measures such as the Odd-Even road rationing scheme, which restricted the use of private vehicles on alternate days based on their license plate numbers. Additionally, the government invested in renewable energy projects and promoted the adoption of electric vehicles to reduce pollution levels in the city.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its achievements, the AAP government has faced several challenges and criticisms during its tenure in Delhi. One of the major criticisms leveled against Arvind Kejriwal and his party is their confrontational approach towards the central government and other political opponents. The frequent clashes with the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, who represents the central government, have led to governance issues and administrative gridlock at times.
The party has also been accused of making populist promises and failing to deliver on some of its key electoral pledges, such as providing free Wi-Fi and installing CCTV cameras in public spaces across Delhi. Moreover, allegations of infighting and internal dissent within the party have raised questions about its long-term viability and cohesion.
During the period from 2014 to 2019, Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) faced numerous allegations and accusations from their political opponents, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), regarding various scams and controversies. While some of these allegations were unsubstantiated or politically motivated, they nevertheless had an impact on the public perception of the AAP government in Delhi. Let's delve into some of the major controversies and accusations leveled against Arvind Kejriwal and his party during this time:
1. Allegations of Corruption and Scams:
- The BJP and other political opponents repeatedly accused the AAP government of corruption and involvement in various scams during its tenure in Delhi. These allegations ranged from irregularities in government contracts to financial improprieties in the funding of political campaigns.
- One of the most prominent controversies during this period was the alleged "Water Tanker Scam," in which the Delhi Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) registered an FIR against Arvind Kejriwal and his predecessor, Sheila Dikshit, regarding irregularities in the awarding of contracts for water tankers. The AAP government dismissed these allegations as politically motivated and accused the central government of targeting them for their anti-corruption stance.
2. Disputes with the Lieutenant Governor:
- The AAP government in Delhi frequently clashed with the Lieutenant Governor (LG), who represents the central government, over issues of administrative authority and governance. These disputes often led to administrative gridlock and hindered the implementation of key policy initiatives.
- The BJP and other critics of the AAP government accused Arvind Kejriwal of engaging in confrontational politics and undermining constitutional norms by challenging the authority of the LG and the central government.
3. Allegations of Mismanagement and Inefficiency:
- The BJP criticized the AAP government for its alleged mismanagement of various government departments and public services in Delhi. They accused Arvind Kejriwal of prioritizing populist measures over sound governance and failing to deliver on his promises to improve infrastructure and public services.
- Issues such as the deteriorating condition of government schools and hospitals, delays in the implementation of infrastructure projects, and inadequate sanitation and waste management were cited as examples of the AAP government's alleged inefficiency.
4. Political Vendetta and Targeting of Opponents:
- Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP leadership accused the BJP-led central government of engaging in political vendetta and using state agencies to target opposition parties, including the AAP. They alleged that central investigative agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) were being misused to harass and intimidate AAP leaders and disrupt their governance agenda in Delhi.
- The AAP government claimed that the BJP's actions were aimed at destabilizing the elected government in Delhi and undermining the principles of federalism and democratic governance.
5. Allegations of Failure to Fulfill Electoral Promises:
- The BJP and other critics accused Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP of making unrealistic electoral promises during the 2015 Delhi Assembly elections and failing to fulfill them during their tenure in office. Promises such as providing free Wi-Fi, installing CCTV cameras, and regularizing unauthorized colonies were highlighted as examples of unfulfilled commitments.
- The BJP argued that the AAP government's inability to deliver on its electoral promises reflected its lack of vision and administrative competence, further eroding public trust in the party's leadership.
The Controversy Surrounding Delhi's Excise Policy 2021-22
The Delhi government's Excise Policy 2021-22, unveiled on November 17, 2021, was envisioned as a transformative measure aimed at modernizing the retail liquor sector, enhancing consumer experience, and bolstering revenue by an estimated Rs 9,500 crore. Spearheaded by the Arvind Kejriwal administration, the policy marked a departure from traditional norms by phasing out government-run liquor outlets and ushering in privately owned establishments.
Key Reforms Introduced by the Excise Policy:
- The policy introduced flexibility for licensees, enabling them to offer discounts to consumers, a departure from previous regulations.
- It abolished the iron grilles commonly seen at liquor vends in Delhi, allowing customers to browse and purchase their preferred brands in spacious, well-lit, air-conditioned shops, under CCTV surveillance.
- Home delivery of liquor was permitted through online platforms and mobile apps, enhancing convenience for consumers.
- The policy allowed liquor stores to operate in various commercial areas, including markets, malls, and local shopping complexes, subject to regulatory compliance.
- The number of dry days was reduced from 21 to three per year, providing more flexibility for consumers and businesses.
- Bars in hotels and restaurants were granted permission to remain open until 3 am, extending nightlife options in the city.
Allegations of Irregularities and Scam: However, the implementation of the Excise Policy was mired in controversy following a report submitted by Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena in July 2022. The report raised concerns about potential procedural irregularities and financial losses incurred by the government.
The report accused then Excise Minister Manish Sisodia of making unilateral decisions and alleged that the policy's implementation resulted in financial losses for the government, with AAP leaders and ministers purportedly receiving kickbacks.
Two separate investigations, led by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED), were initiated. The CBI probe resulted in Sisodia's arrest in February 2023, while the ED focused on potential money laundering aspects of the case.
Arrests and Allegations Against AAP Leaders: Apart from Sisodia, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and party member Vijay Nair were arrested in connection with the case. The ED alleged that AAP leaders received kickbacks amounting to Rs 100 crore from individuals identified as the "South Group."
The ED's investigation led to allegations implicating Arvind Kejriwal for the first time after the arrest of K Kavitha, a leader from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and daughter of former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao. The ED claimed that Kejriwal conspired with Sisodia and others to manipulate the Excise Policy in exchange for financial benefits.
Kejriwal's Alleged Involvement: The ED asserted that Kejriwal was a "conspirator" in the scam, alleging his involvement in orchestrating favorable outcomes in the policy formulation. A supplementary prosecution complaint by the ED alleged that Kejriwal communicated with a key accused, Sameer Mahendru, via video call, instructing him to collaborate with Vijay Nair, whom Kejriwal referred to as "his boy.
The allegations against Kejriwal have intensified the scrutiny surrounding the Excise Policy and raised questions about the AAP government's integrity and governance practices. As investigations continue, the unfolding scandal threatens to have far-reaching implications for the political landscape of Delhi and the AAP leadership.
In the ED's proceedings, he was arrested on 21st March, 2024, by the ED officers. After the court denied bail, he was sent to judicial custody until 14th April, and the day before yesterday, he was transferred to Tihar Jail. He was assigned prisoner number 670.
According to the governing party and various other political figures, Arvind Kejriwal and his party frequently alter their positions on their statements. On numerous occasions, they have been accused of uttering falsehoods and subsequently retracting their statements. In fact, several have even offered apologies in court for providing misleading or untruthful information. This pattern of behaviour is purportedly mirrored by members of his political party.
Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have faced criticism for instances where they have been accused of making misleading statements or retracting their positions. This pattern of behavior has led to accusations of dishonesty and inconsistency against both Kejriwal and some of his party leaders. Let's examine this aspect further:
1. Instances of Untruthful Statements: There have been several instances where Arvind Kejriwal or AAP leaders have been accused of making misleading or untruthful statements, both in public and in legal proceedings. These statements have ranged from promises made during election campaigns to claims made about government policies or initiatives.
2. Apologies and Retractions: In some cases, Kejriwal or AAP leaders have been compelled to issue apologies or retractions for their statements, particularly when faced with legal action or public scrutiny. These apologies have sometimes been made in court as part of defamation cases or other legal proceedings.
3. Criticism and Backlash: The pattern of making untruthful statements and later retracting or apologizing for them has drawn criticism from opponents and sections of the media, who accuse Kejriwal and the AAP of lacking integrity and credibility. Critics argue that such behavior undermines public trust in the party and its leaders.
4. Defenses and Justifications: Supporters of Kejriwal and the AAP often defend these instances as honest mistakes or misunderstandings, emphasizing the challenges of navigating the complex and often adversarial world of politics. They argue that while errors may have been made, the party's overall commitment to transparency and accountability remains intact.
5. Impact on Reputation: The repeated instances of untruthful statements and retractions can have a detrimental impact on the reputation of both Kejriwal and the AAP. Public perception of the party's honesty and integrity may be eroded, making it more difficult to garner trust and support from voters.
6. Calls for Accountability: In light of these controversies, there have been calls for greater accountability within the AAP leadership, with demands for stricter adherence to ethical standards and transparency in communication. Critics argue that without meaningful efforts to address these concerns, the party's credibility may continue to suffer.
In conclusion, the narrative surrounding Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is one characterized by a mix of promise and controversy. Kejriwal's rise from an anti-corruption activist to the Chief Minister of Delhi represented a beacon of hope for many disillusioned with traditional politics. However, his tenure in office has been marked by challenges, criticisms, and accusations, including allegations of corruption, policy irregularities, and instances of untruthful statements. While Kejriwal and the AAP have implemented significant reforms and initiatives aimed at improving governance and empowering citizens, they have also faced scrutiny and backlash for perceived shortcomings and inconsistencies. The ongoing controversies surrounding the Excise Policy and allegations of dishonesty underscore the complexities and pitfalls of political leadership. As Kejriwal and the AAP navigate these challenges, their ability to address concerns, uphold ethical standards, and regain public trust will ultimately determine their legacy in Indian politics.
However, the hunger for politics and power persists. Despite being incarcerated, he is attempting to exert influence over the Delhi Vidhan Sabha from behind bars, which is unconstitutional. Yesterday, Sanjay Singh, a prominent leader, was granted bail by the court, leading to rumors that he could be the next CM of Delhi. However, other rumors suggest that Kejriwal wants his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, as his replacement. This all revolves around the pursuit of power and the chair of Delhi.
However, it appears that many second-tier leaders will be affected by the liquor case, and numerous other cases may surface. New names disclosed by Kejriwal include his Delhi ministers Atishi Marlena, Sourabh Bhardwaj, Pathak, and Raghav Chadha. This will likely lead to a shift in the political landscape of Delhi, but overall, such instances where a CM jailed in a corruption case remains in power are not conducive to democracy.
Compiled and writen by : Balwant Singh Rana
