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Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: AAP Releases Fifth Candidate List, Mahender Chaudhary in Latest Candidate List

December 20, 2024, 2:18 pm

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced its fifth list of candidates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections in 2025, featuring Mahender Chaudhary as the party’s nominee from Mehrauli. This announcement comes on the heels of AAP’s fourth list, which was released on December 15, 2023, and included 38 candidates.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will contest from New Delhi

In the latest list, AAP’s national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will contest from New Delhi, while current Chief Minister Atishi is set to run from Kalkaji. Other notable candidates include Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj from Greater Kailash and Minister Gopal Rai from Babarpur. The party has also fielded Satyendra Kumar Jain from Shakur Basti, Durgesh Pathak from Rajinder Nagar, Ramesh Pehalwan from Kasturba Nagar, Raghuvinder Shokeen from Nangloi Jat, Som Dutt from Sadar Bazar, Imran Hussain from Ballimaran, and Jarnail Singh from Tilak Nagar.

The fifth list includes two new names, while the remaining 36 candidates are incumbents seeking re-election. Notably, Ramesh Pehalwan, a former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, has joined AAP and will contest from Kasturba Nagar. His wife, Pooja Naresh Balyan, will represent AAP from Uttam Nagar.

The party’s candidate selection process has seen significant changes, with AAP dropping 17 sitting MLAs in its second list released on December 9. However, three familiar names—Manish Sisodia, Rakhi Birla, and Deepu Chaudhary—have been re-nominated.

In the 2020 assembly elections, AAP achieved a significant victory, winning 62 out of 70 seats, while the BJP secured only eight seats. As the election date approaches, AAP continues to finalize its candidate lineup in preparation for the upcoming electoral battle.

Take Care of Yourselves, You’ll Be in My Thoughts Even in Jail’, Arvind Kejriwal Tweets Before Surrender

June 2, 2024, 12:03 pm

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is set to return to prison on Sunday following an order from the Supreme Court. His request for temporary bail on health grounds has been postponed until June 5 by the Delhi court.

In his post on ‘X,’ Kejriwal stated that he would be returning to jail around 3 pm. Before doing so, he plans to visit Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial at Raj Ghat, the party office on DDU Marg, and a Hanuman temple.

“I came out for election campaign for 21 days on the orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court. I am very grateful to the Hon’ble Supreme Court. Today I will surrender by going to Tihar. I will leave home at 3 pm. First, I will go to Rajghat and pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. From there I will go to Hanuman temple in Connaught Place to seek blessings of Lord Hanuman,” the Delhi CM said in his post on X.

“And from there I will go to the party office and meet all the workers and party leaders. From there I will again leave for Tihar. All of you take care of yourselves. If you are happy then your Kejriwal will also be happy in jail,” he added.

Kejriwal, who is in jail for the Delhi excise case, was granted a three-week temporary bail to campaign for the Lok Sabha election 2024, which ended yesterday.

Delhi Court Notifies Enforcement Directorate On Arvind Kejriwal’s Bail Pleas

May 30, 2024, 2:44 pm

Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court has sent a notification to the Enforcement Directorate regarding the interim and regular bail pleas filed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. These bail requests are set to be reviewed on June 1 at 2 pm.

Earlier, the Supreme Court’s registry declined to list Kejriwal’s plea seeking an extension of interim bail, stating that the lower court was available for his appeal. As the court had not yet delivered its verdict on Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest, the registry clarified that his petition for extending interim bail was separate from the main case.

In response, Kejriwal submitted a fresh plea to the Supreme Court, urging a seven-day extension of his interim bail and requesting an urgent hearing before a vacation bench on May 28. Currently in recess, the Supreme Court is not in regular session.

Given relief by the court until June 1 to campaign for the Lok Sabha elections and surrender the following day, Kejriwal is seeking an extension of interim bail by a week. Health concerns, including issues with kidney function and significant weight loss, form the basis of Kejriwal’s appeal.

Kejriwal’s party highlighted his declining health, noting a weight loss of 7 kg since his arrest and elevated ketone levels, indicating potential symptoms of a serious illness.

While the Supreme Court bench reserved its decision on the plea challenging his arrest, it permitted Kejriwal to seek bail from the trial court.

Will Kejriwal Face a NIA Probe? AAP’s Saurabh Bharadwaj Calls LG VK Saxena a BJP Agent

May 6, 2024, 11:51 pm

Arvind Kejriwal NIA Probe Row: In response to the proposal for an NIA probe into Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj accused LG VK Saxena of being a BJP agent, claiming his actions were part of a larger conspiracy against Kejriwal.

Bharadwaj stated, “LG is merely a pawn for the BJP. This is another plot against CM Kejriwal orchestrated by them, even before the Punjab Assembly elections.”

The principal secretary to LG VK Saxena wrote to the Ministry of Home Affairs, alleging Kejriwal’s acceptance of political funding from the pro-Khalistan group ‘Sikhs for Justice’ in exchange for the release of 1993 Delhi blast convict Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar.

The letter claimed possession of a video where terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun alleged that the AAP received $16 million between 2014 and 2022. It further alleged Kejriwal’s meeting with pro-Khalistan Sikh leaders in New York, promising Bhullar’s release.

This adds to Kejriwal’s challenges, already facing imprisonment since March over a liquor policy scandal. The Enforcement Directorate accused Kejriwal and other AAP members of accepting kickbacks as donations, prompting the AAP-led Delhi government to revoke the policy following LG VK Saxena’s recommendation for a CBI inquiry.

Meanwhile, AAP leader Manish Sisodia has been in custody since February last year on similar charges, and Sanjay Singh recently obtained bail after over five months in jail.

Kejriwal’s Appeal to Supreme Court: “Not a single Rupee was traced back to AAP”

April 27, 2024, 6:30 pm

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal submitted a response to the Directorate of Enforcement’s (ED) affidavit to the Supreme Court on Saturday, asserting that there is “no proof or material” indicating that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) received funds or illicit kickbacks from the South group, let alone utilized them during the Goa election campaign.

“Not a single Rupee was traced back to the AAP, and the allegations put forth in this regard are devoid of any tangible evidence, rendering them vague and baseless without any corroboration,” Kejriwal responded to the affidavit submitted by ED.

“No proof of even any cash payment was given. There exists no proof or material demonstrating that the AAP received funds or advanced kickbacks from the South group, let alone utilized them in the Goa election campaign. Not a single Rupee was traced back to the AAP, and the allegations put forth in this regard are devoid of any tangible evidence, rendering them vague, baseless without any corroboration,” as mentioned in the affidavit.

Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, recently submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court challenging the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) stance on his arrest. He contended in his response that the central government was abusing its power to conduct arrests during the general election.

He argued that the timing of his arrest, occurring just before the announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule and the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct, strongly indicates the “arbitrariness” of the ED.

“This timeline establishes the fact that Kejriwal has been arrested intentionally with a malafide intent without any necessity to arrest,” the Chief Minister responded.

The affidavit further stated that the ongoing “classic case” of how the ruling party-led central government has exploited the extensive powers of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to dismantle the Aam Aadmi Party and its leadership, which serves as its primary political adversary.

In his response, Kejriwal emphasized the absence of compelling evidence tying him to any criminal activities related to the underlying offense, such as the concealment, possession, acquisition, or utilization of proceeds of crime, which are necessary to invoke penalties under Section 3 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The affidavit also asserted that on March 21, 2024, just five days after the declaration of the general elections and the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) unlawfully detained a sitting Chief Minister and the National Convenor of one of India’s six national Opposition parties.

Kejriwal noted that in the ongoing general elections, the AAP is directly challenging the ruling party at the Center, and highlighted that voting commenced on April 19.

The statement further indicated that Kejriwal’s unjust incarceration has significantly damaged his political party and will unjustly benefit the ruling party at the Center during a critical period of heightened political activity in the ongoing elections.

“A level playing field–which is a pre-requisite for ‘free and fair elections’- has been compromised with the illegal arrest of the Petitioner,” the affidavit stated.

He asserted that he has consistently cooperated with the investigation and cited several Supreme Court rulings stating that non-cooperation by an individual does not justify an arrest.

The Chief Minister’s declaration went on to state that ED linked the purported, “large-scale destruction of evidence” as a ground to arrest Kejriwal, however, it stated, “there is not even a single averment alleging the destruction of evidence of any kind by Kejriwal and hence the said ground is devoid of any merit.”

“Moreover, the respondent (ED), being devoid of any cogent reason, is now raising frivolous and fictitious grounds for justifying the illegal arrest of the Petitioner (Kejriwal),” said the rejoined.

Kejriwal had appealed to the Supreme Court to revoke his detention and remand by the ED regarding the excise policy matter. The apex court had already directed the central agency to provide its response to Kejriwal’s plea.

Arvind Kejriwal, the leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), had challenged a Delhi High Court decision that dismissed his objection to his ED arrest and remand regarding the excise policy matter.

In his appeal to the highest court, Kejriwal asserted that his detention following the announcement of the general elections was, “motivated by extraneous considerations.”

On April 9, the High Court dismissed his plea for release from custody and dismissed his allegation that the upcoming Lok Sabha elections were driven by political vendetta.

The High Court had indicated that Kejriwal’s failure to adhere to nine ED summonses issued over six months raised questions about his assertion of special privilege as Chief Minister, suggesting that his detention was a consequence of his non-cooperation.

Kejriwal was apprehended by the ED on March 21 as part of a money laundering probe related to alleged irregularities in the now-defunct Delhi excise policy for 2021-2022.

Kejriwal arrest not in contravention of Law, remand can’t be termed ‘illegal’: Delhi HC

April 9, 2024, 4:31 pm

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday rejected Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s petition challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Excise policy case. The court stated that Kejriwal’s arrest was lawful and cannot be termed as “illegal.”

Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma, presiding over the bench, noted that the ED had sufficient evidence to justify Kejriwal’s arrest. Kejriwal’s failure to cooperate with the investigation and the delays caused by him were also affecting others in judicial custody.

According to the material collected by the ED, Kejriwal was allegedly involved in a conspiracy and actively participated in the use and concealment of proceeds of crime. The ED’s case indicates that he was involved both in his personal capacity and as the convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

The court emphasized that Kejriwal’s arrest and remand should be evaluated according to the law and not based on the timing of elections. The court dismissed Kejriwal’s argument that his arrest before the general elections lacked justification in the absence of any malice on the part of the ED.

Kejriwal had alleged in his plea that the ED had failed to prove at the time of his arrest that he was guilty of the activities specified under Section 3, such as concealment, possession, acquisition, or use of proceeds of crime.

Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21 in connection with the excise policy case. The trial court later remanded him to judicial custody until April 15, 2024. The ED has alleged that the AAP is the primary beneficiary of the proceeds of crime generated in the alleged liquor scam and that Kejriwal was directly involved in formulating the excise policy.

The case revolves around alleged irregularities and money laundering in the framing and implementation of the Delhi Excise Policy 2022, which was subsequently scrapped.

Although Kejriwal’s name was not mentioned in the FIRs registered by the ED or the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Delhi excise policy case, it first appeared in the ED’s chargesheet. The agency claimed that Kejriwal had a video call with one of the main accused, Sameer Mahendru, and instructed him to continue working with co-accused and AAP communications-in-charge Vijay Nair.

Nair was one of the first individuals arrested by the CBI in 2022. Following this, former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh were also arrested in connection with the case. However, Singh was granted bail by the Supreme Court last week.

Atishi Expresses Concern Over Kejriwal’s Health, Claims 4.5 kg Weight Loss Since Arrest

April 3, 2024, 11:37 am

Delhi Minister Atishi expressed concern over Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s health, stating that he has lost 4.5 kg weight since his arrest and suffers from “severe diabetes”. Atishi criticized the BJP for allegedly conspiring against Kejriwal and putting his health at risk.

“Arvind Kejriwal suffers from severe diabetes. Despite health problems, he used to work 24 hours a day to serve the country. Since his arrest, Arvind Kejriwal has lost 4.5 kg of weight. This is very worrying,” Atishi said in a post on ‘X’.

अरविंद केजरीवाल एक severe diabetic हैं। स्वास्थ की समस्याओं के बावजूद, वे देश की सेवा में 24 घण्टे लगे रहते थे।

गिरफ़्तारी के बाद से अब तक, अरविंद केजरीवाल का वज़न 4.5 किलो घट गया है। यह बहुत चिंताजनक है। आज भाजपा उन्हें जेल में डाल कर उनके स्वास्थ को ख़तरे में डाल रही है।

अगर…

— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) April 3, 2024

“Today, the BJP is putting his health at risk by jailing him. If something happens to Arvind Kejriwal, forget about the entire country, even God will not forgive them,” she added.

According to sources from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Chief Minister’s weight is decreasing rapidly in jail. Party sources said that since his arrest, Kejriwal has lost four and a half kilogrammes of weight and his doctors have expressed concern over his rapidly decreasing weight.

Meanwhile, Kejriwal, who has been remanded to judicial custody in the liquor policy case, spoke to his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, through video conference on Tuesday at around 1:30 pm.

Kejriwal started Wednesday morning by sweeping his prison cell with a broom at Delhi’s Tihar Jail, sources said adding that all under-trial prisoners at Tihar Jail have to clean their cells themselves.

On April 1, a Delhi court remanded the Delhi Chief Minister to 15-day judicial custody in the excise policy case and sent him to Tihar Jail till April 15.

The court has permitted him to have home-cooked meals and carry with him the prescribed medications for his diabetes.

According to the sources, the Delhi Chief Minister lodged in Jail Number 2 of the high security Tihar Jail was given an isolation room and was provided with a table and a chair to keep three books, as per the court’s order.

“Kejriwal slept on his own bed, which was different from the regular one provided by the jail authority. Since the area was small, he could have faced difficulty but didn’t complain about it,” the sources in the Tihar jail said on Tuesday.

They further said that officials saw him keeping his devices like a sugar sensor and glucometer, isabgol, glucose, and toffees on his table. The court had directed jail authorities to allow Kejriwal to carry these items to be used in case of sudden dip in his sugar levels.

Kejriwal was taken to jail on Monday afternoon after the conclusion of his Directorate of Enforcement custodial remand.

The ED cast the Delhi Chief Minister as the “kingpin” in the alleged scam, and told the court the AAP leader had given “evasive replies” and concealed information relevant to the investigation.

In the year 2014 too the AAP leader was lodged in Tihar jail after he refused to furnish a bail amount of Rs 10,000 in a defamation case filed against him by BJP leader Nitin Gadkari.

Complaint filed against protests hold by AAP’s legal cell in Delhi Courts regarding Kejriwal’s arrest

March 27, 2024, 9:43 am

A formal complaint has been lodged with the acting Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court concerning a protest organized by the Aam Aadmi Party’s legal cell in response to the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The legal cell has announced a protest to take place in all Delhi courts on Wednesday.

Complainant Vaibhav Singh, a practicing advocate, is urging immediate action to halt the unlawful protest organized by the Aam Aadmi Party’s legal cell and political workers within court premises. The complaint also calls for thorough investigations into professional misconduct by the Bar Council of India and the Bar Council of Delhi.

Furthermore, the complainant seeks directives from district and high court bar associations to initiate disciplinary measures against lawyers and political workers participating in the illegal protest within court premises. The complaint emphasizes the imposition of suitable penalties on the Aam Aadmi Party’s Legal Cell for orchestrating an unlawful protest within Delhi court premises.

According to the complaint, it has become a recurrent practice for political parties to involve their legal cell members in strikes, protests, boycotts, or token strikes to exert pressure on law enforcement agencies and, at times, even on the judiciary.

The complaint highlights a video posted by Sanjiv Nasiar, Advocate and Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi, on his Twitter handle on March 26. Nasiar’s video allegedly deemed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest illegal and accused the Enforcement Directorate of acting at the central government’s behest. Such allegations against law enforcement agencies and the central government, followed by the utilization of court premises for political purposes, are deemed severe violations of professional ethics and the rules of the Bar Council of India, as well as contrary to Supreme Court directives.

The Aam Aadmi Party’s Legal Cell has scheduled protests in various Delhi courts on Wednesday, including the Delhi High Court, Patiala House Court, Dwarka Court, Saket Court, Karkardoona Court, Tishazari Court, and Rouse Avenue Court.

BJP holds ‘Holika dahan’ of corruption in Delhi; attacks AAP, Kejriwal

March 24, 2024, 3:16 pm

In response to the protests held by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers in Delhi against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Bhartiya Janata Party workers, in the presence of Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva, staged a demonstration and burned effigies of Arvind Kejriwal.

“Notably, the demonstration by the BJP workers was held on the eve of Holi celebrations,” reported ANI.

“Holi is a festival of goodness over evil. Today we have done the Holika dahan of corruption. If there is one face of corruption in Delhi, that is Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Each and every Delhiite should wish for a Kejriwal-free government, a corruption-free government,” said Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva.

“Arvind Kejriwal hasn’t cared about the nation. He has just taken care of his family and his pocket which is why he has been arrested and his ministers are in jail,” Sachdeva added.

Hitting back at the Bhartiya Janata party over the allegations made against the Delhi CM on the liquor policy scam, AAP minister Saurabh Bharadwaj stated that the ‘kingpin’ of the excise policy scam, Sharad Chandra Reddy, sold electoral bonds to the Bhartiya Janata party.

“Even after arresting the kingpin of the excise policy scam, Sharad Chandra Reddy, the Bhartiya Janata party took 55 crore from him. The BJP leaders, who do seven press conferences in a single day, are mum on this. Neither Anurag Thakur nor Smriti Irani, Manoj Tiwari, or Virendra Sachdeva want to speak on this,” AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj said.

“This is the same person that the BJP has accused of money laundering, and yet taken money from him. I have three questions from the BJP, How does the BJP know Sharad Chandra Reddy? Which BJP leader met him? BJP has taken almost 60 crore from Sharad Chandra Reddy; we want to know why? Why did the BJP not tell this to the ED and CBI?,” he asked.

AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in connection with the now-scrapped excise policy case.

The case pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22, which was later scrapped. AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are in judicial custody in the case.

Kejriwal’s name has been mentioned multiple times in the chargesheets filed by the ED. The agency has alleged that the accused were in touch with Kejriwal for formulating the excise policy that resulted in undue benefits to them in return for which they paid kickbacks to the party.

AAP Ministers Atishi, Saurabh Bharadwaj detained as party protests arrest of Kejriwal

March 22, 2024, 12:01 pm

Aam Aadmi Party leaders, including Delhi Ministers Saurabh Bharadwaj and Atishi, were detained by Delhi police during a party protest against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest on Friday.

“We will state before the Supreme Court that Arvind Kejriwal should be allowed to meet his lawyer and family and also allowed to carry out his official work. Kejriwal’s family has been put under house arrest,” said Saurabh Bharadwaj.

The AAP held a protest at the ITO in the national capital against CM Kejriwal’s arrest by the ED in the excise policy case.

Atishi, in a post on X, said she has been detained by Delhi Police while peacefully protesting at ITO.

“I have been detained by Delhi Police while peacefully protesting at ITO. First, these people arrest the Chief Minister of Delhi in a false case, then the peaceful protesters are also being arrested. If this is not the murder of democracy then what is it?” Atishi posted on X.

The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear a plea of Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal against his arrest by the ED in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case linked to a money laundering case.

A special bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna, MM Sundresh, and Bela Trivedi will hear the matter today.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi mentioned Kejriwal’s plea before a bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud for an urgent hearing.

“If this process goes on, before the first vote is cast, a lot of senior leaders will be behind bars. Please take it up,” Singhvi told the bench.

The petition was filed by Kejriwal, challenging the arrest by the ED last night subsequent to his arrest.

On Thursday, the Delhi High Court refused to grant Kejriwal any protection from coercive action in an excise policy-linked money laundering case.

Kejriwal had moved the court in the wake of the ninth issued by the ED, asking him to appear before it on Thursday.

Delhi Assembly cancels scheduled sitting for today; next session set for March 27

March 22, 2024, 11:36 am

The Delhi Assembly has cancelled its sitting scheduled for Friday following the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is set to appear before a special court today. The next assembly session is now planned for March 27 at 11 am.

“Hon’ble members are hereby informed that the Hon’ble Speaker has directed the sitting of the House scheduled for today i.e. 22 March 2024 stands cancelled,” the Deputy Secretary stated.

Kejriwal, the AAP National Convenor, was arrested on Thursday in connection with a money laundering case related to an alleged liquor policy scam. The cancellation was announced by the Deputy Secretary, citing the Speaker’s directive.

Workers of the Aam Aadmi Party have launched a nationwide protest in response to Kejriwal’s arrest. DMK MP Dayanidhi Maaran and Tamil Nadu Minister Sekar Babu protested in Chennai Central against the arrest.

AAP leaders have described the arrest as a move by the BJP to stifle opposition voices ahead of the elections. They have rallied behind Kejriwal, while the BJP has supported the ED’s actions, accusing Kejriwal of corruption.

The INDIA bloc parties have criticized the BJP for using the ED as a weapon against the opposition. Two senior AAP leaders, Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, are already in judicial custody in the excise policy case.

The arrest of Kejriwal marks the first time a sitting CM has been arrested by the Central government, according to Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi. She described it as a “political conspiracy” by the BJP.

“Delhi CM’s arrest is BJP’s political conspiracy”, says Atishi

March 22, 2024, 10:27 am

Describing the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as a “political conspiracy” by the BJP, Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi asserted that it’s unprecedented for a sitting CM to be apprehended by the Central government. At a press conference on Friday, she stated, “It is the first time that a sitting CM has been arrested by Central government. Even the Jharkhand Chief Minister resigned before his arrest. In the country’s history, it is the first time that after the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections, the national convenor of a national party has been arrested. Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest is the BJP’s political conspiracy.”

Expressing faith in the Supreme Court’s role in safeguarding democracy, Atishi emphasized the importance of maintaining a level playing field. She remarked, “If this is not about damaging a level playing field, then what is it?…We hope that today as well Supreme Court will protect democracy in the country…BJP wants that Arvind Kejriwal should not be able to campaign in Lok Sabha elections…We are in touch with INDIA alliance leaders, they have expressed solidarity with Arvind Kejriwal.”

Meanwhile, Atishi also raised concerns about the safety and security of the Delhi Chief Minister. In a post on X on Friday, she noted, “For the first time in the country, a sitting Chief Minister has been arrested. Arvind Kejriwal has Z+ security cover. Now he is in the custody of the ED of the Central Government. We are concerned about his safety and security.”

The Enforcement Directorate visited Kejriwal’s residence on Thursday to question him regarding the liquor policy case, leading to his arrest amid dramatic circumstances as he failed to secure interim protection from the Delhi High Court. Subsequently, he was taken to the agency’s headquarters.

In response to Kejriwal’s arrest, AAP workers and leaders showed support, while leaders of the INDIA bloc extended solidarity. BJP leaders backed the ED’s actions, emphasizing the importance of truth.

Moreover, the Delhi Chief Minister moved to the Supreme Court regarding his arrest but did not receive a special hearing. Delhi Minister and AAP leader Gopal Rai announced plans for a nationwide protest against what they deemed as the “illegal” arrest of Arvind Kejriwal.

The INDIA bloc parties stood in support of Kejriwal and criticized the BJP for using the ED against the Opposition. Additionally, on March 15, the ED arrested Bharat Rashta Samithi (BRS) leader, the daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, in connection with the money laundering investigation related to the now-scrapped excise policy.

Furthermore, two senior AAP leaders, Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, are in judicial custody in the excise policy case. Sisodia, the then Delhi Deputy Chief Minister, was arrested by the CBI on February 26 after several rounds of questioning. On October 5, the ED arrested Sanjay Singh, a Rajya Sabha member.

Delhi Police seeks evidence from Kejriwal and Atishi in BJP Poaching allegations

February 4, 2024, 4:41 pm

The Delhi Police Crime Branch has issued a new notice to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, urging him to provide evidence by Monday in response to his allegations of BJP attempting to poach AAP MLAs. Additionally, AAP leader and minister Atishi received a notice to respond within three days regarding the poaching claim case.

In a letter undersigned by Pankaj Arora, ACP of Central Range Crime, the Crime Branch mentioned, “An inquiry is being conducted by the Crime Branch of Delhi police, on a complaint received in respect of the allegations made by you that the BJP has offered Rs 25 crore each to the sitting MLAs of AAP for leaving the party and joining the BJP.”

The notice emphasized that evidence related to the alleged cognizable crime should be submitted by February 5. Earlier, a Crime Branch team visited Atishi’s residence to serve a notice concerning her assertion that the BJP aimed to lure away AAP MLAs through cash inducements, part of ‘Operation Lotus 2.0’.

Jasmine Shah, an AAP leader, criticized the notices, stating, “There is also no mention of any section of the IPC or CrPC. All it has are words inscribed on a piece of white paper.”

Responding to the AAP’s criticism, BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla accused Kejriwal and his associates of being ‘un-crowned kings of corruption’ and ‘fugitives,’ urging them to cooperate with the investigation and provide evidence. BJP MP Pravesh Verma dismissed the allegations as a tactic to divert attention, stating that if the claims were true, the AAP would have cooperated with the notices.

Former cricketer and BJP MP Gautam Gambhir asserted that those who are honest face the law and do not evade it. Atishi had earlier alleged that the BJP approached several AAP MLAs with bribes and threats in an attempt to sway them to their side.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Holds Crucial Meeting with AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi

January 13, 2024, 6:54 pm

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is currently engaged in a crucial meeting with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi. The meeting, taking place at Kharge’s residence, is attended by prominent figures including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and AAP MP Raghav Chadha.

Yesterday evening witnessed a substantial gathering of leaders from both the Congress and AAP, focusing on discussions related to seat sharing. The two-hour meeting took place at the residence of Congress leader Mukul Wasnik, with sources from both parties describing it as a positive step forward.

Simultaneously, Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) national president Nitish Kumar reportedly declined the role of convenor for the INDIA bloc on Saturday. Sources reveal that Kumar suggested a representative from the Congress should assume the responsibility.

A virtual meeting of INDIA bloc leaders commenced on Saturday afternoon, addressing seat-sharing arrangements, participation in Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, and other alliance-related matters. Following the virtual meeting, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed optimism about the positive trajectory of seat-sharing talks.

In a social media post on X, Kharge extended an invitation to all INDIA bloc parties to join Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ at their convenience. He stated, “Leaders of the INDIA Coordination Committee today met online and had a fruitful discussion on the alliance. Everyone is happy that the seat-sharing talks are progressing positively.”

Furthermore, INDIA Alliance, under the chairmanship of Mallikarjun Kharge, held a meeting, as confirmed by Sharad Pawar. Pawar highlighted that decisions on seat sharing would be expedited, and there was consensus on Kharge leading the alliance.

The developments mark a crucial phase in the alliance-building process, as parties collaborate on seat-sharing arrangements and joint initiatives in the forthcoming days.

AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal to Visit Goa for Lok Sabha Polls Preparation

January 13, 2024, 2:41 pm

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is scheduled to visit Goa from January 18 to 20 to assess the party’s preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. During his visit, Kejriwal will address AAP workers in Goa, according to sources.

Originally proposed for January 11 and 12, the tour was postponed due to Kejriwal’s involvement in meetings related to Republic Day program preparations in the national capital.

As part of the alliance-building process, a meeting between Congress and Aam Aadmi Party leaders took place in Goa on Friday. The two-hour meeting at Congress Rajya Sabha MP Mukul Wasnik’s residence was described as positive by leaders of both parties.

In addition to the Lok Sabha polls’ preparation, the virtual meeting of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc on Saturday is expected to discuss the alliance parties’ participation in the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, set to commence on January 14 in Manipur.

The INDIA bloc, comprising opposition parties, including the Congress, aims to challenge the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The NDA secured 353 seats in the 2019 elections, with the BJP winning 303. The UPA secured 91 seats, while other parties won 98 seats. The election, conducted in seven phases between April 11 and May 19, witnessed a voter turnout of around 67%.

Delhi Government Faces Allegations of Pathology Test Scam; BJP Criticizes Handling

January 4, 2024, 3:56 pm

Amid accusations regarding a pathology and radiology test scam at Delhi’s Aam Aadmi Mohalla Clinic (AAMC), the Arvind Kejriwal-led government has pointed fingers at senior Health Department officials, contending that these officials were appointed by the central government. The controversy emerged after allegations of irregularities in diagnostic labs surfaced, leading to the dismissal of 26 personnel, including seven doctors and staff.

Delhi Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj, in a press conference, emphasized that senior officials, appointed by the central government, were responsible for overseeing diagnostic labs. He asserted that the Delhi government did not appoint these officials and has urged their removal in light of the ongoing investigation. The BJP’s Delhi unit has criticized the AAP government, linking the alleged scam to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

The Delhi BJP President, Virendra Sachdeva, accused Kejriwal, along with former Health Minister Manish Sisodia and current minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, of being aware of the pathology scam. Sachdeva expressed regret over the alleged distribution of fake and substandard medicines in Delhi government hospitals and highlighted another pathology test scam worth hundreds of crores.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has recommended a CBI inquiry into the fake lab tests conducted in AAMC. The lab inquiry revealed the use of fake or non-existent mobile numbers to mark patient entries. Fake attendance was recorded through pre-recorded videos. The Directorate of Family Welfare raised concerns about unethical practices, fraudulent attendance marking, and dispensing medicines without a doctor present. Action has been taken against the involved staff, and a review of lab diagnostics services is underway.

The AAP government faces mounting scrutiny as the opposition intensifies its criticism, calling for accountability and a thorough investigation into the alleged scams in healthcare services.

Arvind Kejriwal Alleges ED Summons Aimed at Disrupting Lok Sabha Election Campaign

January 4, 2024, 12:37 pm

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Chief, Arvind Kejriwal, has claimed that the recent Enforcement Directorate summons issued to him were strategically timed to impede his campaigning efforts for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The AAP has been vocal in asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is attempting to arrest Kejriwal.

Kejriwal, addressing the media, expressed his belief that the summons were a deliberate tactic to hamper his political activities, especially during the crucial election period. He contended that there was no evidence of corruption in the Delhi liquor policy case under investigation.

The Enforcement Directorate’s summons come after a two-year probe, prompting Kejriwal to question the timing of the issuance—just before the commencement of the Lok Sabha elections. He raised concerns about the political implications and questioned why the summons were not issued earlier in the investigative process.

The AAP chief’s statements reflect the ongoing political tensions between the AAP and BJP, with the former accusing the latter of employing legal mechanisms to hinder their political leader. The political landscape is likely to intensify as both parties navigate the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

As the situation develops, the focus remains on the potential impact of these summons on Arvind Kejriwal’s political engagements and the larger political narrative leading up to the elections.

AAP Leader Arvind Kejriwal Meets Tamil Nadu CM Stalin Ahead of INDIA Bloc Meeting

December 19, 2023, 11:26 am

In anticipation of the crucial INDIA bloc meeting on Tuesday, Arvind Kejriwal, the convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Delhi Chief Minister, engaged in discussions with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin at Tamil Nadu Bhavan in Delhi. The meeting, coordinated by DMK MP TR Baalu, focused on various INDIA Alliance matters, including the recent suspension of opposition MPs.

AAP MP Raghav Chadha expressed concerns over the suspension of MPs, declaring it a “black day in India’s democracy.” He emphasized that Arvind Kejriwal is a significant force that the BJP fears.

Key leaders of the INDIA Alliance, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, have arrived in the capital for the meeting. Seat-sharing discussions are expected to dominate the agenda as the Lok Sabha elections are merely a few months away.

JMM MP Mahua Maji expressed confidence that the alliance parties would take steps to avoid repeating mistakes made in recent Assembly polls. The meeting is viewed as an opportunity to convey to the public that the alliance can effectively challenge and defeat the BJP.

AAP leader and Delhi Minister Atishi highlighted the importance of seat-sharing and other crucial points in the meeting, affirming AAP and Arvind Kejriwal’s commitment to the success of the India Alliance.

The INDIA, or ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance’ comprises opposition parties, including the Congress, united with the aim of countering the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The alliance’s theme, “Judega Bharat, Jeetega India” (India will unite, India will win), underscores its determination to challenge the ruling BJP-led government. Previous meetings in Patna, Bengaluru, and Mumbai laid the groundwork for collaborative strategies, emphasizing collective participation in the electoral process. Resolutions adopted during the Mumbai meeting underscored the commitment to contest the 2024 Lok Sabha elections collectively, with seat-sharing arrangements to be determined through a spirit of cooperation.

Ahead of INDIA Meet, Patna Endorses Nitish Kumar for PM: Posters Make Strong Pitch

December 19, 2023, 11:19 am

Before the INDIA bloc meeting, Patna saw the appearance of posters supporting Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as the opposition alliance’s prime ministerial nominee. The posters read, “Agar sach mein jeet chahiye toh fir ek Nischay aur ek Nitish chahiye”(If victory is the objective, then we need to resolve Nitish). Deliberations on seat-sharing for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections are expected to be a key focus as the bloc prepares for its fourth meeting on Tuesday.

Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi, addressing the media on Tuesday, highlighted that crucial aspects, including seat-sharing, would likely be pivotal topics during the meeting. Atishi conveyed the commitment of the AAP and Arvind Kejriwal to contribute towards ensuring the success of the opposition alliance.

With the Lok Sabha polls just four months away, seat-sharing discussions are anticipated to dominate the agenda of the upcoming INDIA bloc meeting. The outcome of these discussions holds significant implications for the Congress, particularly following its electoral setbacks in the heartland states of Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.

The opposition alliance, spearheaded by the Congress, was established with the primary goal of presenting a united front against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in the 2024 general elections. Previous meetings of the opposition bloc, held in Patna, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, have laid the groundwork for collaborative strategies, emphasizing the importance of collective participation in the electoral process. The Mumbai meeting also saw the adoption of resolutions to jointly contest the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with an emphasis on reaching seat-sharing agreements through a cooperative approach.

ED Summons Arvind Kejriwal in Liquor Policy Case

December 18, 2023, 6:26 pm

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate for questioning in the liquor policy case. This marks the second time the central agency has issued a summons to the Aam Aadmi Party leader; the first was on November 2. The Chief Minister, citing election campaign commitments, had skipped the earlier summons.

Kejriwal has been called in on Thursday for questioning in connection with the allegations related to the AAP government’s revamped alcohol sales policy of 2022. The case suggests that the policy allowed the government to receive kickbacks from cartels, allegedly used to fund the party’s election expenses in various states.

In response to the earlier summons, Kejriwal had deemed it “illegal” and “politically motivated,” demanding its withdrawal. The recent summons specifies Thursday for his appearance. Notably, an individual can skip a summons thrice, following which the agency can secure a non-bailable warrant.

The case has seen arrests of prominent figures, including Kejriwal’s former deputy, Manish Sisodia, and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh. Both were apprehended in connection with the liquor policy case. Kejriwal had questioned the specificity of the summons, seeking clarification on whether it pertained to him as an individual, Chief Minister of Delhi, or National Convenor of AAP. The investigation has been criticized by the AAP, terming it a “fishing and roving inquiry.”

Arvind Kejriwal promises Rs 7000 bonus for govt employees ahead of Diwali

November 6, 2023, 11:32 am

On Monday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal made a momentous announcement, proclaiming a bonus of Rs 7,000 for around 80,000 Group B non-gazetted and Group C government employees in anticipation of Diwali. This huge bonus is anticipated to cost the state government Rs 56 crore.

In a video message, CM Kejriwal expressed, “We will provide Rs 7,000 as a bonus to the Group B non-gazetted and Group C employees of the Delhi Government. Currently, around 80,000 Group B non-gazetted and Group C employees are working with the Delhi government.”

Kejriwal emphasized the immense contributions of government workers in areas such as education, health, infrastructure, and public services over the past eight years, stating, “Due to their hard work, we have been able to transform Delhi into a city of dreams.”

Furthermore, on November 1, the Chief Minister had previously announced the regularization of jobs for numerous workers from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, including 6,494 sanitation workers. He also described this as a significant development in celebration of Diwali, highlighting the workers’ long-standing demand for regularization.

As the festival of Diwali approaches on November 12, this bonus serves as a token of appreciation for the dedicated government employees who have played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s progress.

Uddhav Thackeray assures support to Kejriwal in anti-ordinance push

May 24, 2023, 5:05 pm

Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), met Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday and assured him of his party’s support in Parliament for the Centre’s rule limiting bureaucrat transfers and postings in the national capital.

At a press conference following their meeting in Mumbai, Thackeray lashed out at the Centre, claiming that the opposition is banding together to “save the country and democracy.”

“I think we should not be called ‘opposition’ parties in fact they (Centre) should be called ‘opposition’ since they are against Democracy and Constitution,” Uddhav Thackeray added.

The ordinance, issued by the Centre on 19 May, just days after the Apex Court upheld the primacy of the city-state’s elected government over bureaucracy, strengthened the position of the Lieutenant Governor, allowing him to act in “sole discretion” in deciding matters relating to the transfer and posting of bureaucrats.

Meanwhile, during a press conference Kejriwal said that “Uddhav Thackeray has promised us that they will support us in the Parliament, and if this bill (ordinance) does not pass in the Parliament then in 2024, the Modi government will not be coming back to power.”

Banerjee assured Kejriwal of her support, saying that it will “give us a chance to defeat the BJP before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.” “We stand in solidarity with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in its struggle against the central ordinance… “I urge all parties not to vote for the BJP’s legislation,” she continued.

Delhi LG VK Saxena asks CM about miserable hygiene and sanitary conditions

March 11, 2023, 6:52 pm

LG VK Saxena writes to CM, flags the miserable hygiene and sanitary conditions at Wazirabad Water Treatment Plant, that supplies drinking water to large parts of Delhi.

Let Delhi see what kind of water we are drinking.

LG also flags gross inaction on part of DJB in cleaning/desilting the pond reservoir behind Wazirabad barrage, that supplies water to Wazirabad and Chandrawal Water Treatment Plants.

Despite a desilting contract being in place since 2013, no desiltation took place resulting in the depth of the pond reducing from 4.26 Mtrs to a mere 0.42 Mtrs during the last 8 years.

The pond had a capacity to hold 250 million gallons of water, but it has now gotten reduced due to siltation ny 93% and can now holds only 16 million gallons.

Frequent water shortage in the City including the one that recently took place before Holi, on account of Wazirabad and Chandrawal WTPs not being operational fully, is solely due to this reason and not due to the Haryana Excuses that AAP makes to fool the people.