The Delhi Chief Minister has been participating in interviews with various media houses. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed his concerns about the state of democracy in India. He discussed the challenges faced by his party, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and highlighted the need for a strong opposition to ensure a healthy democracy. Kejriwal also addressed national issues such as unemployment and inflation, criticizing the current government’s lack of action in resolving these problems. We have gotten the gist of his views on democracy, his party’s struggles, and his stance on national issues.
The Threat to Democracy:
Kejriwal began by expressing his concerns about the state of democracy in India. He criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly using false cases and arrests to topple opposition governments. Kejriwal emphasized the need to fight against such tactics and protect democracy. He mentioned that if democracy is imprisoned, it will find a way to run from jail, indicating the resilience of the people in upholding democratic values.
His response to one of the leading Media House- Indian express
The country is going through a very difficult time. Slowly, and now very quickly, the country is moving towards dictatorship. They (the BJP government at the Centre) first arrested (ex-Jharkhand CM) Hemant Soren, and then me. By arresting me, they are giving a message to people of the country that if they can arrest Kejriwal in a false case, they can arrest anyone. So they should be feared, and people should do as they say. These are signs of a dictatorship. In a democracy, they should listen to people, but they are asking people to listen to them. We have to save the country from this. In a way, this is like the freedom struggle. Many people who inspire me today went to jail for long periods at the time. My going to jail is to save the country, it is not because I am corrupt. It is not because Manish Sisodia has done something wrong. Just like people went to jail for long periods for this country’s freedom, we are going to jail to save democracy and the Constitution. I have always said that I can sacrifice my life for the country. This is a part of that struggle.”
The Aam Aadmi Party’s Struggles:
Kejriwal highlighted the challenges faced by the AAP, stating that the BJP aims to crush the growth of his party. He mentioned ongoing operations to arrest AAP leaders and seize their bank accounts and office premises. However, Kejriwal emphasized that the AAP has evolved from being a party of a few individuals to an idea that is spreading across the country. He emphasized the party’s work and achievements, claiming that it has brought about significant changes that have not been seen before.
National Issues: Unemployment and Inflation:
During the interview, Kejriwal addressed two major national issues: unemployment and inflation. He criticized the current government for not taking effective measures to tackle these problems. Kejriwal stated that people across the country are struggling to meet their household expenses, with job losses and rising costs. He expressed disappointment that the Prime Minister has not addressed these issues in his speeches or provided concrete plans to address them. Kejriwal emphasized the need for a leader who can offer solutions and provide employment opportunities to the people.
Arvind Kejriwal’s interview revealed his concerns about the state of democracy in India, as well as the problems confronting the Aam Aadmi Party. He emphasized the importance of fighting the ruling party’s techniques for suppressing opposition governments. Kejriwal also criticized the government’s failure to address national issues such as unemployment and inflation. He emphasized the significance of a robust opposition and a leader capable of effectively addressing the public’s concerns. Despite the hurdles, Kejriwal is committed to fight for democracy and a better future for the country. He stressed that he hopes to ‘rule democracy’ from within Tihar Jail, a direct challenge to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who accused Kejriwal of being “shameless” because he is the only leader who has remained chief minister even after being imprisoned. After the BJP wins seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi, the ‘Fevicol’ that Kejriwal is using to hold onto the position of chief minister will come unstuck”. In the next few days, after the Loksabha Election 2024 result is out on June 4th 2024, there will be more clarity on the fate of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and his AAP Party.