Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann asserted in an interview that the BJP is intimidated by Arvind Kejriwal's "growing stature" and is attempting to prevent him from campaigning in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Mann stated, "We have consistently maintained that Kejriwal would be arrested. The BJP is apprehensive of a prominent leader like Kejriwal participating in the campaign. They fear him and seek to dismantle both him and AAP." Arvind Kejriwal was apprehended by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case and is currently under the agency's custody until March 28.
Responding to the Enforcement Directorate's accusation that Kejriwal was the "kingpin" in the liquor policy case, Bhagwant Mann labeled it as "political vendetta." He highlighted the case of Sharat Reddy, who initially denied any acquaintance with Kejriwal but later implicated him. Mann also mentioned Reddy's appearance on the electoral bonds' list, alleging a donation of Rs 55 crore to the BJP. Mann dismissed the probe agency's allegations against Kejriwal as baseless and unsubstantiated.
Regarding AAP's assertion that the Delhi government could function from jail, Mann clarified that there is no provision allowing a Chief Minister to govern from outside the office. Responding to queries about the possibility of President's Rule in Delhi, Mann questioned the necessity for such action, criticizing the appointment process of the Lieutenant Governor and advocating for democratic governance by elected officials.
The Punjab Chief Minister criticized the central probe agencies for allegedly targeting non-BJP states while sparing BJP-ruled states. He accused the BJP of attempting to suppress opposition parties. Mann raised concerns about the impartiality of agencies such as the ED, Niti Aayog, CBI, and Income Tax Department, suggesting their alignment with the BJP.
Refuting speculations about Sunita Kejriwal, Arvind Kejriwal's wife, joining AAP and assuming leadership, Mann clarified that such rumors were unfounded. In essence, Mann highlighted the perceived intimidation tactics employed by the BJP against Kejriwal and AAP, emphasizing the importance of democratic governance and impartiality in probe agencies.
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