Punjab CM says court relief to Arvind Kejriwal vindicates AAP’s stand on misuse of central agencies

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday said that the discharge of charges against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal, senior AAP leader and Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia and others in the excise policy case has vindicated the party’s consistent stand that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and other central agencies were being misused by the Union government to target political opponents.

In a video message, the Chief Minister said, “It is a historic day in the country’s politics as the court has acquitted Arvind Kejriwal and 23 others who were wrongly booked by the CBI. The case against Arvind Kejriwal and others was a desperate attempt by the Union government to stop the Aam Aadmi Party, which was expanding across the country through its agenda of governance and public welfare. The court’s order proves that however long the dark night may be, it eventually ends and truth prevails.”

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Thanking people who prayed for Arvind Kejriwal and the party, Mann said, “The prayers of the common people have worked wonders, and these honest leaders have been acquitted. The court’s order has raised serious questions about the functioning of the CBI, which is acting like a puppet in the hands of those in power. It has exposed the blatant misuse of central agencies to suppress democratic voices.”

Referring to political developments in Delhi, the Chief Minister alleged, “In an attempt to win elections in Delhi, the BJP-led Union government put the entire decision-making leadership of the Aam Aadmi Party behind bars. Today’s court decision has proved that Arvind Kejriwal is an honest leader who rules the hearts of people because he speaks the truth. Every volunteer of the AAP entered politics to serve the people despite being professionally successful in their respective fields.”

Taking on traditional political parties, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Conventional parties are uneasy with the rise of the Aam Aadmi Party because we have set a governance agenda focused on the welfare of the common man. Earlier, the Congress and the BJP alternated in power while safeguarding each other’s political interests. Power changed hands, but the system remained unchanged.”

He further stated, “This cycle was disrupted when the Aam Aadmi Party emerged as a major political force. Those who raise their voice against corruption often face retaliation and are implicated in false cases. Individuals benefiting from corruption target honest leaders through fabricated allegations.”

Alleging threats to democratic processes, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Instead of seeking votes through public service and accountability, attempts are being made to manipulate electoral outcomes. Such practices are harmful for the country, its people, and democratic institutions.”

Issuing a challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Chief Minister said, “If you wish to govern, you must win the trust and hearts of the people through performance, not through such tactics. Rather than strengthening education, healthcare, infrastructure, power supply, and employment opportunities, the BJP is pursuing divisive politics.”

Continuing his criticism, he said, “Every patriot wants India to progress and become number one globally, not witness political manipulation. Honest citizens are concerned about the manner in which the country is being governed today. Dividing society on sectarian lines for political gain is not in the national interest.”

Drawing an analogy, Bhagwant Singh Mann remarked, “A bouquet is admired because it contains a variety of flowers. Diversity adds beauty and harmony. Similarly, peaceful coexistence among all religions and communities is essential for the country’s progress.”

Praising Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership, he said, “Arvind Kejriwal is a leader of action who transformed Delhi through dedication and hard work. When the AAP formed the government in Delhi, the annual budget stood at ₹30,000 crore, which later rose to ₹66,000 crore. Resources were utilized to provide free electricity, quality education, Mohalla Clinics, and other public welfare facilities.”

On an emotional note, Bhagwant Singh Mann added, “Arvind Kejriwal feels deeply for the country and its future. Such treatment of an honest leader is unfortunate. India today needs an engine of patriotism to address prevailing challenges rather than political slogans about double-engine or triple-engine governments.”