Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Resigns Amid Excise Policy Case
On Tuesday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal took a dramatic step by submitting his resignation to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. This move comes in the wake of Kejriwal‘s recent bail release from Tihar jail, where he had been held in connection with the ongoing excise policy case.
A Bold Move and a Public Appeal
Kejriwal’s resignation follows his announcement on Sunday to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers, shortly after being granted bail. His speech on Sunday was a compelling mix of resignation and rallying cry for public validation.
“If you believe that I am honest,” Kejriwal declared, “then vote for me. I will resign from the Chief Minister position in two days and will not hold the CM’s chair. With elections approaching in Delhi, I want to make an appeal to the people: If you believe that I am honest, then vote for me.”
This bold stance comes as Kejriwal, after being released on bail, announced his intention to resign within 48 hours. He has also called for early elections in Delhi, aiming for a November timeline that coincides with electoral schedules in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.
Background of the Excise Policy Case
The case against Kejriwal stems from his arrest on March 21, 2024, by the Enforcement Directorate. The allegations involve a liquor scam purportedly linked to the Delhi Government’s excise policy, occurring just ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Following his arrest, Kejriwal was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court on May 10 to facilitate election campaigning. He surrendered to Tihar Jail on June 2 after his bail period ended.
On September 13, the Supreme Court granted Kejriwal bail with specific conditions. Despite his release, the investigation into the case remains ongoing. The Delhi CM‘s decision to step down and call for elections reflects his strategy to put his integrity to the test before the electorate.
A Test of Integrity
Kejriwal’s resignation is not merely about vacating the Chief Minister‘s chair but is also a gesture to underscore his commitment to transparency and accountability. By proposing a direct test of public faith, he’s framing the upcoming elections as a referendum on his honesty.
“If you believe Kejriwal is guilty, then don’t vote for me,” he stated. “Each vote you cast will be a testament to my honesty. Only if you vote for me and confirm that you believe I am honest will I assume the CM’s chair after the elections. Until then, I will not take up the position. I want to undergo this ‘agnipariksha’ after coming out of jail.”
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