The political landscape in Delhi has been significantly unsettled following President Droupadi Murmu’s decision to forward a memorandum from BJP legislators to the Ministry of Home Affairs. This memorandum, which demands the dismissal of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, has ignited a fierce confrontation between the ruling party and the opposition.
The BJP's memorandum highlights a so-called "constitutional crisis" stemming from Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s ongoing imprisonment. Kejriwal has been in judicial custody since March 21, following his arrest in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. The BJP argues that his detention has caused a severe breakdown in governance, alleging that the AAP government has been unable to effectively manage administrative duties, including the formation of the 6th Delhi Finance Commission and addressing issues raised in the Comptroller and Auditor General’s report.
Vijender Gupta, a prominent Delhi BJP leader, has emphasized the gravity of the situation, suggesting that Kejriwal’s refusal to resign has led to a "paralysis of governance." Gupta has demanded a comprehensive review of the Delhi government's performance over the past decade, contending that the issues at hand are not solely related to the current administration but are rooted in broader failures over the years.
In response, AAP leaders have vehemently rejected these claims, accusing the BJP of a deliberate attempt to destabilize the Delhi government. Cabinet Minister Atishi accused the BJP of plotting to topple the elected government through underhanded means, motivated by their fear of an imminent electoral defeat. She framed the BJP’s actions as a desperate measure to avoid facing the electorate in the upcoming Assembly elections, asserting that such moves undermine democratic processes.
AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh has also criticized the BJP’s approach, challenging them to set a date for the Delhi Assembly elections if they are so eager to face the results. Singh expressed confidence in the AAP’s readiness for the electoral contest, suggesting that the BJP’s attempt to discredit the Delhi government is a futile exercise driven by electoral anxieties.
The President’s secretariat has forwarded the BJP’s memorandum to the Home Secretary for a thorough review. This procedural step marks the beginning of a potentially lengthy investigation into the BJP’s allegations against the Delhi government.
Amid these developments, the AAP has accused the BJP of using the situation to distract from their own shortcomings and failures. They argue that the ongoing protests and demands for Kejriwal’s resignation are part of a broader strategy to undermine the AAP’s governance and erode public trust in their leadership.
The situation remains fluid as the Union Home Ministry reviews the BJP’s memorandum. The outcome of this review could significantly impact Delhi’s political dynamics and the AAP’s ability to govern effectively in the lead-up to crucial elections. As the confrontation between the AAP and the BJP escalates, it underscores the deepening political rifts in the capital and the high stakes involved in the upcoming electoral battle.
