Is Modi above rules? Kejriwal's five bold questions to Mohan Bhagwat

Arvind Kejriwal stepped down as chief minister on Tuesday, just days after his release from Tihar Jail, where he was detained in connection with the excise policy case. In his absence, Atishi has assumed the role of Delhi's chief minister until the elections scheduled for February 2025.

Follow us:

Arvind Kejriwal (ANI)

New Delhi: Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, launched a fierce critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, alleging a deliberate conspiracy aimed at tarnishing his reputation. In a public address in Delhi, he posed pressing questions to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat regarding the conduct of the BJP.

Allegations of corruption

“For the last ten years, we have governed with integrity,” Kejriwal asserted. He highlighted his administration’s achievements, including free electricity and water, along with accessible healthcare and quality education. He accused Modi of viewing these successes as threats, prompting a scheme to frame him and other AAP leaders as corrupt, leading to their imprisonment.

Kejriwal shared his intention to vacate the chief minister's bungalow shortly, stating, “I don't even have a house.” He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the public, saying that many have offered him a place to stay. He plans to relocate after the Shraadh period, coinciding with the start of Navratri.

Legal struggles and public accountability

Following his recent resignation amidst the excise policy controversy, Kejriwal pointed out that his legal battle could extend for a decade. “I cannot live with this stain,” he remarked, expressing his commitment to transparency. He emphasized that if he were truly dishonest, he would have misappropriated substantial funds, contrasting his record with the BJP’s governance in 22 states, where basic services remain unfree.

Questions for RSS and BJP

Kejriwal’s address also included direct challenges to Modi's ethical conduct. He questioned the appropriateness of using investigative agencies to undermine political rivals and criticised the BJP for incorporating previously labelled corrupt politicians. He pressed Bhagwat on whether the RSS had ever intervened to curb Modi’s actions.

Furthermore, he referenced a past statement by BJP president JP Nadda, questioning the relationship between the BJP and RSS, and pointed out inconsistencies regarding leadership retirement rules within the party, particularly concerning Modi.