Just two days after being granted bail and walking free from prison after a six-month stint, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced his resignation from his role. In a dramatic turn of events, Kejriwal revealed his decision during a party meeting earlier today. “I will resign from the Chief Minister’s position effective immediately. I will not return to that chair until the people of Delhi have spoken. With elections still months away, I believe it is crucial to wait for their verdict before resuming office,” Kejriwal stated.
Seeking Justice from the People
Kejriwal made it clear that his resignation is a strategic move to seek justice through the electorate rather than the legal system. “I want to know from the people of Delhi: Do you believe I am innocent or guilty? If you think I have served you well, then vote for me,” he urged. The Delhi Chief Minister emphasized that a meeting of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs will be convened within the next two days to elect a new leader for the capital.
AAP’s Next Steps..
Kejriwal confirmed that a member of the AAP would be appointed as the new Chief Minister following his resignation. He plans to embark on a public campaign to garner support directly from the people. Additionally, he has called for the Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for February, to be moved to November to align with the Maharashtra state elections.
Criticism and Accusations
In his address, Kejriwal took a strong stance against the Narendra Modi government, accusing it of being more authoritarian than the British colonial regime. He defended his decision not to resign while he was under arrest, asserting that his resignation now is a step to protect democracy. “They have filed cases against several Chief Ministers from non-BJP states. I urge my fellow leaders not to resign under similar circumstances,” Kejriwal said.
Kejriwal also mentioned his recent discussions with former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who also received bail related to the contentious liquor policy. “Both Manish and I believe our futures should be decided by the people’s judgment,” he added.
Political Reactions
The BJP was quick to react, with party spokesperson Harish Khurana questioning the timing and sincerity of Kejriwal’s resignation. “Why wait 48 hours? If he was serious, he should have resigned immediately. The people of Delhi are asking why he cannot fulfill his duties,” Khurana remarked. He also indicated that the BJP is prepared for early elections, expressing confidence in reclaiming power in Delhi.
On the other hand, the Delhi Congress welcomed the resignation, though with some criticism. Delhi Congress Chief Devendra Yadav remarked, “It is a relief that Kejriwal has resigned, even if it is late. His resignation would have been more meaningful during Delhi’s recent crises like floods and water shortages. We hope a new Chief Minister will be able to effectively address these issues.”
As the political landscape of Delhi shifts once again, all eyes will be on the forthcoming AAP MLA meeting to determine the next steps for the capital’s leadership.
