AAP leader Manish Sisodia has leveled serious accusations against the Enforcement Directorate (ED), claiming that the agency has waged a relentless campaign of political and mental harassment against him. Speaking at a gathering during the “Janta ki Adalat” (people's court) event in New Delhi, Sisodia, who formerly served as the Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, recounted the arduous experiences he endured during the 18 months he spent incarcerated in connection with the contentious liquor policy case.
In a deeply personal account, Sisodia detailed the severe financial hardships he faced during his time in jail, revealing that the ED had frozen his bank accounts, which left him in a precarious situation. He explained that he had to "beg" for his son’s college fees, a situation that no parent wishes to find themselves in. Reflecting on his early financial struggles, he recounted purchasing a modest home in 2002 for ₹5 lakh, only for the agency to later seize it. He also disclosed that they confiscated ₹10 lakh from his savings, which had been accrued from his salary. These actions, he asserted, were not just financial blows but also attempts to undermine his spirit and sense of self-worth.
Sisodia emphasized the psychological toll that this campaign of harassment took on him, stating, “Their attempt was to break Manish Sisodia, but I am a loyal soldier in Arvind Kejriwal's team. I did not break, nor did I panic.” His resolve is particularly noteworthy, given the circumstances he faced. Sisodia was arrested by the ED in February 2023 under serious allegations of money laundering related to the liquor policy, but after securing bail in August 2024, he is now reintegrating into public life.
The former Deputy Chief Minister also addressed claims made by the ED, which suggested that Arvind Kejriwal had distanced himself from Sisodia amid the ongoing investigation. Sisodia alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was attempting to sow discord between him and Kejriwal. He likened their relationship to that of Lord Ram and Lord Lakshman from Hindu mythology, famously stating, “No Ravana in the world has the power to separate Lakshman from Ram.” This powerful metaphor underscores his commitment to stand firmly beside Kejriwal as they confront what he described as the “Ravana of dictatorship,” a characterization aimed at the current political climate and the challenges posed by the central government.
On September 13, just days after Kejriwal's release from Tihar Jail, Sisodia metaphorically linked their reunion to the legendary bond of loyalty and courage, asserting that just as Ram and Lakshman reunited in the Ramayana, they too had reconnected in solidarity after enduring their respective battles with the legal system. This framing of their relationship emphasizes the narrative of resilience and unwavering loyalty within the Aam Aadmi Party as both leaders navigate the tumultuous political landscape.
Kejriwal himself made headlines shortly after his release by resigning from his position as Chief Minister, declaring his intention to return only after proving his innocence. This statement reflects a broader commitment to accountability and transparency in governance, particularly in light of the intense scrutiny they face. The events surrounding their arrests, coupled with ongoing investigations into allegations of corruption and misuse of power, highlight the increasingly charged political environment in Delhi. These developments have sparked vigorous debates about the integrity of political institutions and the lengths to which parties may go in pursuit of their agendas, raising critical questions about governance, justice, and the very nature of political discourse in contemporary India.
