 |
|
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal ignited a political firestorm by comparing the current situation in India to Vladimir Putin's Russia, alleging a prevailing 'dictatorship' in the country. He made these remarks while campaigning in Punjab, asserting that such a state of affairs is unacceptable in a democracy.
Kejriwal directed his criticism at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, claiming that opposition leaders are being unjustly imprisoned. He cited the ongoing detention of Aam Aadmi Party leader Manish Sisodia since February last year as an example of political suppression. Kejriwal further alleged that the central government has been harassing other opposition parties such as the Congress, TMC, and MK Stalin's DMK.
The catalyst for Kejriwal's outburst was the recent registration of an FIR against his secretary, Bibhav Kumar, by the Delhi Police. Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal accused Kumar of physically assaulting her in Kejriwal's residence, an incident that Kejriwal has sought to distance himself from. During a joint press conference, Kejriwal appeared evasive when questioned by journalists about the matter.
Kejriwal's comments have drawn sharp reactions from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has accused him of playing politics and making baseless allegations. The AAP, on the other hand, has defended Kejriwal's statements, maintaining that they reflect the growing authoritarianism in the country.
The escalating political rhetoric ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections has created an atmosphere of heightened tension and polarization. Kejriwal's 'dictatorship' jibe has undoubtedly added fuel to the fire, further intensifying the debate on the state of democracy in India.
Source: 'Like Vladimir Putin...': Arvind Kejriwal's 'dictatorship' jibe amid Swati Maliwal row