Ahmednagar (Maharashtra), February 8, 2025 (ANI): Social activist Anna Hazare has sharply criticized Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) amid current election trends showing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) poised to secure a majority in the Delhi Assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters, Hazare accused AAP of deviating from its original values and getting entangled in controversies surrounding liquor and money. “For a long time, I have emphasized that political candidates must have integrity, good ideas, and an untarnished image. Unfortunately, AAP didn’t understand this, and now their support has dwindled,” Hazare said.
He added that Kejriwal’s alleged involvement in controversies had tarnished his image, leading to fewer votes for his party. “People saw the contradiction—Kejriwal talked about character but got involved in liquor-related issues. In politics, allegations are common, but proving innocence is vital,” Hazare remarked.
Hazare also reflected on his decision to distance himself from AAP in its formative years, saying, “When a meeting was held, I decided not to join the party, and I have stayed away ever since.”
As of 11:50 AM, the Election Commission of India reported the BJP leading on 46 seats and AAP on 24. Key constituencies include New Delhi, where Kejriwal is trailing BJP’s Parvesh Verma, and Kalkaji, where Chief Minister Atishi is behind BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri.
The BJP, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focused its campaign on criticizing Kejriwal over issues like corruption and the Yamuna water crisis. Meanwhile, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra accused AAP of damaging Delhi’s infrastructure during their rallies.
The AAP had aimed for a third consecutive term, while the BJP is seeking to return to power in Delhi after 27 years.
