In a fresh political attack, Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi has branded former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as the “Architect of the liquor scam.” This statement has reignited debates surrounding the Delhi excise policy and put the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) under immense pressure. With the 2024 elections nearing, this controversy could have a significant impact on the political landscape.
In This Article:
Rahul Gandhi’s Allegations Against Arvind Kejriwal
During a recent public rally, Rahul Gandhi accused Kejriwal of misleading people and likened his governance to that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He alleged that Kejriwal was directly responsible for orchestrating the Delhi liquor scam, benefiting select liquor traders while harming public interest. Gandhi’s remarks have sparked a sharp response from AAP, which has accused the Congress leader of maligning their party.
Understanding the Delhi Liquor Scam
The liquor scam controversy revolves around the Delhi government’s 2021-22 excise policy, which aimed to privatize liquor sales. However, the policy was scrapped after allegations surfaced that certain private players were granted undue benefits in exchange for hefty kickbacks. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have been probing the matter, with multiple arrests and allegations surfacing over time.
Manish Sisodia’s Arrest and Its Impact
Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, a key figure in the AAP government, was arrested in connection with the liquor policy case. The CBI alleges that Sisodia played a central role in formulating the policy to benefit select liquor vendors. With his arrest, the opposition has intensified its attack on AAP, demanding greater accountability from Kejriwal and his government.
BJP and Congress Unite Against Kejriwal
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress, despite being traditional rivals, have found common ground in criticizing Kejriwal. The BJP has labeled him the “mastermind” of the scam and has repeatedly demanded his resignation. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have now joined the attack, potentially jeopardizing the unity of the opposition’s INDIA bloc.
AAP’s Defense: Claims of Political Vendetta
The Aam Aadmi Party has strongly denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. Kejriwal himself has dismissed the claims, saying that the investigation is a ploy by opposition parties to tarnish AAP’s reputation. He also alleged that the central government is using investigative agencies to suppress political opponents.
Impact on Delhi Governance and AAP’s Credibility
The controversy has not only put AAP on the defensive but has also raised concerns about governance in Delhi. Questions are being raised about how such a policy was formulated and whether adequate oversight mechanisms were in place. If more arrests or financial irregularities emerge, it could further weaken AAP’s credibility among its voter base.
What This Means for the INDIA Bloc
The INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties aiming to challenge the BJP in the 2024 elections, faces internal rifts due to these allegations. Congress and AAP are both part of the alliance, but Rahul Gandhi’s direct attack on Kejriwal could strain their relationship. If these tensions escalate, it could weaken the opposition’s efforts to present a united front against the BJP.
Public Perception and Electoral Impact
The liquor scam controversy has significant implications for Delhi politics. While AAP has a strong voter base in the capital, continued allegations and arrests could affect public trust. The BJP is likely to use this issue as a major talking point in upcoming elections, while Congress may try to reclaim lost ground in Delhi. Furthermore, Kejriwal’s national aspirations could be dented if his party’s credibility takes a significant hit.
Legal and Political Ramifications
With the investigation still ongoing, legal experts suggest that more disclosures could emerge in the coming months. If Kejriwal or other top AAP leaders are implicated, it could lead to prolonged legal battles, further complicating the party’s electoral prospects. On the other hand, if AAP successfully defends itself and proves political vendetta, it may emerge stronger ahead of the elections.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Arvind Kejriwal
Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks have intensified the political battle, putting Arvind Kejriwal and AAP under renewed scrutiny. With ongoing investigations, opposition attacks, and public opinion at stake, the coming months will be crucial in determining how this controversy shapes the political future of Delhi and beyond. Whether Kejriwal can weather this storm or if it will dent his party’s credibility remains to be seen. As the 2024 elections approach, the liquor scam controversy is likely to remain a major talking point in national and regional politics.
BY – JYOTHI
