Delhi CM Rekha Gupta criticizes Arvind Kejriwal over judiciary remarks, calling for trust in legal processes amid liquor scam controversy. BJP leaders accuse AAP of political theatrics, corruption, and undermining constitutional institutions ahead of crucial political battles.
Tensions escalated in the national capital’s political landscape as sharp exchanges unfolded between the ruling administration and the opposition over issues of judicial integrity, corruption allegations, and political conduct. The controversy centers on remarks made by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva, who strongly criticized former Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal for what they described as undermining the judiciary.
The criticism comes in response to Kejriwal’s recent letter addressed to Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma, in which he reportedly expressed concerns over potential bias in proceedings related to the 2022 Delhi liquor policy case. The case has remained a focal point of political confrontation, with Kejriwal being one of the prominent accused.
Chief Minister Gupta questioned the former CM’s approach, suggesting that his actions indicate a lack of faith in the judicial system. In a strongly worded statement, she remarked that individuals cannot assume the roles of lawyer, witness, and judge simultaneously while questioning the need for the justice system. She further criticized Kejriwal’s reluctance to appear in court and his public remarks against a sitting judge, calling such behavior inappropriate for a leader who has held the highest executive office in Delhi multiple times.
Gupta also took aim at Kejriwal’s invocation of satyagraha, a principle historically associated with non-violent resistance championed by Mahatma Gandhi. She dismissed the comparison as misplaced, arguing that equating ongoing legal proceedings with a moral struggle trivializes both the judicial process and the legacy of Gandhi.
Echoing similar sentiments, Sachdeva described Kejriwal’s actions as “unfortunate” and contrary to the spirit of the Constitution. He pointed out that Kejriwal had already sought legal remedies at multiple levels, including the Supreme Court of India, and suggested that continued public criticism of the judiciary after unfavorable outcomes reflects a disregard for established legal processes.
Sachdeva further accused the AAP leader of engaging in political theatrics, particularly in the aftermath of setbacks in court. According to him, making personal allegations against a High Court judge crosses acceptable boundaries and risks eroding public trust in judicial institutions. He urged Kejriwal to adhere to constitutional norms and allow the legal process to proceed without interference.
The political sparring extended beyond the courtroom controversy. BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor also criticized AAP leadership, calling recent statements by party convenor Saurabh Bhardwaj “laughable.” Kapoor dismissed claims of public anger against former AAP MP Raghav Chadha following his reported shift toward the BJP, instead asserting that public dissatisfaction is rooted in corruption allegations against the AAP government.
Kapoor cited electoral setbacks faced by AAP leaders in the previous Assembly elections as evidence of declining public support. He also broadened the critique to include governance issues in Punjab, where AAP currently holds power. According to him, concerns over corruption, alleged financial irregularities, and rising social challenges have contributed to growing discontent among voters.
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Adding another layer to the unfolding political narrative, Kapoor claimed that Chadha had previously raised concerns within the party regarding corruption, both in Delhi and Punjab. These warnings, he alleged, were ignored by the leadership, eventually leading to internal dissent. The removal of Chadha from a key parliamentary position was described as a turning point that prompted several party members to reconsider their allegiance.
The developments highlight an intensifying political battle ahead of future elections, with corruption, governance, and institutional trust emerging as central themes. While the BJP leadership continues to emphasize adherence to judicial processes and constitutional values, the AAP is expected to respond with its own defense, potentially escalating the confrontation further.
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As the legal proceedings in the liquor policy case continue, the broader implications for political accountability and public trust in democratic institutions remain under scrutiny. Observers note that the manner in which leaders engage with the judiciary and address allegations will play a crucial role in shaping public perception in the coming months.
