New Delhi—The political atmosphere surrounding Arvind Kejriwal, the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and former Delhi Chief Minister, has become increasingly charged following his accusations against the BJP-led Haryana government. Kejriwal alleged during recent press conferences—amidst the backdrop of looming elections—that the Haryana government had deliberately poisoned the Yamuna River, the primary source of drinking water for millions of Delhi residents. His dramatic claim was made with the gravity of calling it potentially leading to mass casualties, invoking accusations of 'genocide'.
“The BJP government in Haryana has poisoned the Yamuna water. Had this water entered Delhi’s supply and mixed with drinking water, it could have led to mass casualties—a genocide,” Kejriwal stated, underscoring the seriousness of his charges. This bold assertion was met with sharp rebuke from various political rivals, prompting immediate protests from Haryana's BJP unit.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini condemned Kejriwal's statements, asserting, “People of Haryana worship the Yamuna,” and he characterized Kejriwal’s comments as motivated by frustration over expected electoral defeat. Saini’s reaction set the stage for significant political fallout, including protests throughout Chandigarh and New Delhi, which were spearheaded by BJP ministers and MLAS.
Protesters not only demanded Kejriwal halt his campaign, but also voiced their displeasure at what they termed as his attempts to shift the blame for his party's failings onto others. The demonstration was charged with urgency, as BJP leaders emphasized Kejriwal's alleged failure to govern effectively for the past decade.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stepped up his criticism, likening AAP leaders to notorious fraudster Charles Sobhraj, known for his manipulation and dishonesty. Speaking to thousands at a rally, Modi said, “Those who built 'Sheesh Mahal' and those who looted public money worth thousands of crores of rupees can never think of the welfare of the poor. These AAP-da people speak lies with such innocence,” highlighting his disdain for Kejriwal's tactics and casting doubt on his integrity.
Modi's comments weren't just personal attacks; they reflected the BJP's broader narrative of attributing failures to Kejriwal’s administration. He criticized AAP's governance, stating, “The last five years, the Delhi Assembly functioned for just 75 days—the shortest period in history. While Delhi's problems grew, only 14 laws were passed, five of which were about increasing MLAS’ salaries.” This pointed to what many see as AAP's neglect of pressing issues affecting Delhi’s residents.
The controversy intensified as the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) stride to refute Kejriwal’s claims. They issued statements asserting their commitment to water quality, reinforcing their processes for monitoring ammonia concentrations and addressing public health safety. The Board clarified, “The claims are factually incorrect and misleading,” indicating the importance of maintaining inter-state relations and public trust.
On the political front, Kejriwal's past promises also resurfaced, drawing scrutiny from opponents like Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit. Gandhi charged at Kejriwal, asserting, “He (Kejriwal) speaks lies one after another just like Modi, there is no difference,” challenging AAP's credibility on the important issue of drinking water safety.
Calling for transparency and accountability, Dikshit publicly invited Kejriwal to participate in a debate, questioning his assertions and demanding evidence to back his claims on water poisoning. He remarked, “If he believes everything he has said over the past few days is true, he should come forward,” signaling how the AAP’s leadership is perceived under pressure from its rivals.
The challenges for Kejriwal did not conclude there, as the Election Commission of India (ECI) issued notice to him, citing breaches of electoral conduct laws pertaining to his controversial remarks. The ECI’s intervention added another layer of complexity for Kejriwal, who now faces potential consequences if found guilty of inciting panic or spreading false narratives.
Adding to the scrutiny, even Anna Hazare, the social activist and former mentor to Kejriwal, criticized the AAP leader for losing his way and prioritizing self-interest over transparency and truth. Hazare lamented, “Kejriwal started prioritizing money, and he slipped,” emphasizing the disapproval emanated from within former alliances.
With the Delhi assembly elections just days away, the stakes are higher than ever. Delhiites will decide whether to support AAP amid these allegations or turn to alternatives presented by Modi's BJP or Congress. Many observers note this election not only as pivotal for the immediate future of governance but also as a verdict on Kejriwal's leadership and promises laid bare against the mounting criticisms from rival political actors.