INDIA Bloc Stages Protest in Delhi
On Tuesday, the Opposition INDIA bloc staged a significant protest in Delhi, rallying around the deteriorating health of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is currently imprisoned. Prominent leaders, including NCP-SP supremo Sharad Pawar, Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav, and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, participated in the demonstration, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Controversy Over Kejriwal’s Health
The controversy surrounding Kejriwal’s health has intensified, with his supporters alleging that he has significantly lost weight during his time in jail. However, Tihar jail authorities have refuted these claims. Kejriwal’s wife, Sunita Kejriwal, expressed her grave concerns at the protest, stating, “Thankful to God that nothing untoward happened to my husband. His life is in danger.” Her remarks underscore the anxiety and fears surrounding the chief minister’s well-being.
Democracy at Stake
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut emphasized the broader implications of Kejriwal’s imprisonment, arguing that it symbolizes a threat to democracy itself. “They have not put Kejriwal ji behind bars but democracy has been put behind bars. The entire INDIA bloc is with Kejriwal,” Raut declared. His words reflect a growing sentiment among opposition leaders that Kejriwal’s imprisonment is not just about one man but about the state of democratic freedoms in the country.
Allegations of Misuse of Power
Former UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav joined the chorus of criticism, accusing the central government of using certain organizations to harass and intimidate politicians. “In our democracy, no one can be falsely accused,” Yadav asserted, calling for the dismantling of such oppressive mechanisms. CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury echoed these allegations, accusing the central government of misusing agencies to make wrongful arrests. These statements highlight a broader concern among opposition leaders about the erosion of democratic norms and the misuse of power.
Kejriwal’s Arrest and Health Concerns
Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor policy scam. He briefly came out of jail during the Lok Sabha election period but was re-incarcerated as soon as the elections concluded in June. The debate over Kejriwal’s health continues, with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders claiming earlier this month that Kejriwal had lost 8.8 kgs due to a “serious disease.” In contrast, Tihar jail authorities have stated that the leader had lost only 2 kgs and was being regularly monitored. This discrepancy has fueled further controversy and concern among his supporters.
Public and Political Reaction
The INDIA bloc’s protest is a significant show of unity among opposition parties, reflecting their collective concern for Kejriwal’s health and the state of democracy in India. The protest also underscores the heightened political tensions and the opposition’s readiness to challenge what they see as oppressive actions by the central government. Kejriwal’s health has become a rallying point, symbolizing broader issues of justice, democratic freedoms, and the misuse of power.
The protest by the INDIA bloc in Delhi highlights the growing concerns over Arvind Kejriwal’s health and the broader political implications of his imprisonment. As the debate over his well-being continues, the opposition remains united in their support for Kejriwal and their criticism of the central government’s actions. This situation not only affects Kejriwal but also raises important questions about the state of democracy and the rule of law in India.
(With inputs from agencies)
