As early trends show the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) poised to secure a majority in the Delhi Assembly elections, social activist Anna Hazare has criticized Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for their alleged involvement in controversies related to liquor and money. Hazare stated that he had long warned about the importance of the “character” of political candidates, but claimed that AAP failed to understand this message, which he believes led to their decline in support.
Speaking to reporters, Hazare remarked, “I have been saying for a long time that political candidates must have good character, solid ideas, and an untarnished image when contesting elections. But AAP didn’t understand this. They got tangled in liquor and money, and Arvind Kejriwal’s image was tarnished because of it. That’s why they are receiving fewer votes now.”
Hazare further emphasized that in politics, it’s crucial to prove one’s innocence when allegations arise. “People saw that while Kejriwal talks about character, he got involved in the liquor issue. In politics, accusations are made, but one must prove they are not guilty. The truth always remains the truth,” he said. Hazare also recalled that after a meeting, he had decided not to be part of the party and has remained distant from it ever since.
According to the latest update from the Election Commission of India (ECI) at 11:50 am, the BJP is leading on 46 seats, while AAP is leading on 24 seats. Key constituencies include New Delhi, where AAP leader and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is trailing BJP’s Parvesh Verma. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi is also trailing BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri in the Kalkaji constituency. The election campaign witnessed intense exchanges between leaders from all three parties.
While AAP is hoping for a third consecutive term, BJP is aiming to return to power in the National Capital after over two decades. BJP’s campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focused on criticizing Kejriwal over issues such as corruption and the state of the Yamuna water. Congress, represented by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, accused AAP of damaging the infrastructure of Delhi.
