Growing buzz about who will be Delhi CM in case Arvind gets arrested
It’s fight or perish for AAP as it navigates legal battles, governance clashes and accusations of betrayal in its national ambitions
Amit Pandey
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), founded by Arvind Kejriwal in 2012, is facing a major existential political crisis as its leader and Delhi Chief Minister is under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged money laundering and corruption charges in liquor scam. Kejriwal has denied any wrongdoing and accused the ED of being a puppet of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which he claims is trying to destabilize his government. However, a Delhi Court has rejected his plea to quash the ED summons and ordered him to appear before the court on February 17, 2024. This will explain the implications of the ED probe for Kejriwal and his party and the possible scenarios that could unfold in the coming days and weeks.
One of the main challenges that Kejriwal faces is the loss of public trust and support for his party, which was founded on the principles of anti-corruption and good governance. The ED probe has tarnished his image and reputation as a crusader against corruption, and has exposed the internal rifts and conflicts within his party. Several of his close associates and senior leaders, such as Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, and Gopal Rai, have been arrested or detained by the ED or other agencies on various charges, leaving him isolated and vulnerable. Moreover, the AAP has faced a series of electoral defeats and defections in the recent state and municipal elections, losing ground to the BJP and the Congress in key states such as Punjab, Goa, and Gujarat. These factors have eroded the confidence and morale of the AAP workers and supporters, and have raised questions about the party’s future and relevance in Indian politics.
Kejriwal’s Expectations Shattered
Kejriwal had pinned his hopes on the apex court, seeking relief from the ED probe. However, his plea was denied by the court as it recognized the ED as a constitutional institution that operates within the laws of the country. The court emphasized that irrespective of a person’s position as a political leader or a business tycoon, if any government agency has doubts or concerns about them, it must be respected. This denial was a significant blow to the AAP stalwarts, as it shattered their last hope of avoiding the ED probe.
Uncertain Leadership Amidst Imminent Arrests
The question of who will assume the leadership mantle in the event of Kejriwal’s arrest by the ED looms large. The ED’s track record indicates that many leaders have been apprehended when they failed to respond satisfactorily to their inquiries. In fact, prominent AAP leaders such as Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh have already been detained. With Kejriwal’s closest associates already in custody and the rest under the ED’s radar, it appears increasingly challenging for him to protect his leadership and government.
The ED Probe: A Serious Threat to Kejriwal and AAP
The ED’s investigation poses a serious threat to both Kejriwal’s government and his leadership. If it culminates in his arrest, resignation, or dismissal, it could trigger a major political crisis in Delhi. Additionally, the AAP is facing a loss of public trust and support, coupled with a decline in its electoral performance and influence. To overcome this crisis, Kejriwal and his party must cooperate with the ED, clear their names, and address internal and external challenges they are confronting.
Reviving the AAP: A Path to Redemption
In order to overcome the current crisis, the AAP needs to take decisive action. First and foremost, they must cooperate fully with the ED to ensure transparency and accountability. This will help clear their names and restore public trust. Kejriwal and his party should also focus on addressing internal challenges, such as strengthening their organization and ensuring a robust leadership structure that can weather such storms. They should reassert their core values and vision, and reconnect with their voters and supporters to regain their lost influence.
Moreover, the party needs to strategize and bring forth policies and initiatives that resonate with the aspirations of the people. This includes addressing key issues such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and corruption within the government. By staying true to their ideals and focusing on good governance, the AAP has the opportunity to revive itself and become a force to be reckoned with in Indian politics.
The AAP’s leadership crises, resulting from the ongoing ED probe against Kejriwal, have thrown the party into turmoil. With several prominent leaders already in custody and others under the ED’s scrutiny, the party faces a precarious situation. The ED’s investigation not only threatens Kejriwal’s government and leadership but also undermines public trust and support for the AAP. However, all hope is not lost. By cooperating with the ED, addressing internal challenges, reconnecting with voters, and prioritizing good governance, the AAP can still claw its way back to relevance in Indian politics. The coming days will determine its fate, and it is crucial for Kejriwal and his party to act swiftly and wisely to navigate these troubled waters.
