Arvind Kejriwal Jailed, Minister Raaj Kumar Anand Resigns, Leaves AAP Alleging “Corruption

Mr Anand, the social welfare, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes minister of Delhi, announced his resignation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). In a press conference, he stated that he joined the party due to its strong stance against corruption but was now leaving because the party had become embroiled in corrupt practices, a sentiment that he also expressed in contrast with the party’s original promise to bring about change in politics. He emphasized his sadness about the situation and shared that he had entered politics inspired by the idea that changing politics would change the country. Mr Anand, who represents Patel Nagar, criticized the AAP for its alleged discriminatory practices in appointing Dalit leaders to leadership positions within the party.

He expressed his commitment to the principles of Baba Saheb Ambedkar and stated that if he cannot work for Dalits within the party, then there is no point in remaining a part of it. Furthermore, Mr Anand’s house had been searched by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a customs-linked money laundering case. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence had lodged a complaint alleging customs evasions in imports of over Rs 7 crore. Mr Anand received a complaint from the ED in this regard.

In a related development, Atishi, a key AAP leader, alleged that the BJP was using pressure tactics to recruit AAP members. This claim led to a defamation notice being issued against her by the Delhi BJP unit. The Delhi High Court also dismissed a challenge by Mr Kejriwal against his arrest in the liquor policy case. The ED accused Mr Kejriwal and two colleagues of accepting kickbacks in relation to the now-scrapped liquor policy.

The ED alleged that the AAP used these funds as poll expenses, accusations which Mr Kejriwal and the AAP have consistently denied, maintaining that there is a political conspiracy against the Chief Minister. In light of Mr Anand’s resignation and the wider context of political developments, it is evident that there are significant tensions within the Delhi political landscape.