The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is currently facing its biggest crisis yet, which is ironic considering the party’s mission to eliminate corruption in India. The party’s downfall has been triggered by corruption charges, and it will be a challenging task for AAP to distance itself from these allegations.
The party’s Achilles heel has been its liquor policy, which was once hailed as an innovative idea in governance and policymaking. The recent rejection of Manish Sisodia’s bail application by the Supreme Court has been a defining moment for AAP. Previously, there was hope that Sisodia would be granted bail and emerge from Tihar Jail with his head held high.
During the court hearing, the Supreme Court stated that there was “no evidence” against Sisodia and that the statement of an approver was insufficient to keep him in jail indefinitely. These observations seemed promising, but they were merely observations and not part of the final verdict. The court’s final judgment indicates that there is a prima facie case against Sisodia, suggesting a money trail and an intent to benefit private players through changes in the liquor policy.
The court’s acceptance of the Enforcement Directorate’s argument strengthens their case legally and undermines AAP’s claims of a witch-hunt. It also exonerates the Modi government in the eyes of the public. The credibility of the judicial system may have diminished in recent years, but the Supreme Court still commands a high level of trust and integrity.
In a matter of hours after the verdict, the ED issued summons to Arvind Kejriwal, and there is a high possibility that he may be arrested as well. This development further weakens AAP’s argument that Kejriwal is being targeted by the agency at the behest of the Modi government. Given the strong case against Sisodia, the involvement of the chief minister cannot be ruled out.
Kejriwal’s potential arrest would be catastrophic for the party. Questions would arise regarding his replacement as chief minister and who would lead the party in his absence. The arrest of a chief minister is not unprecedented in Indian politics. Lalu Prasad Yadav and Jayalalithaa were both arrested during their tenures, and their parties managed to survive their absence. However, AAP lacks the same level of strong leadership and institutional memory.
The RJD and AIADMK had other prominent leaders who could collectively face the crisis. With the arrest of Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, AAP’s influential leaders, there is now a serious question about who can replace Kejriwal if he is taken into custody. Kejriwal will likely choose someone loyal, but whether others will accept this choice remains uncertain.
If Kejriwal is arrested, it could create embarrassment for the INDIA alliance, and the opposition’s charge against the government would weaken. They may still extend support to AAP, but only to a certain extent. However, Kejriwal is not an ordinary leader. He has a strong mass appeal, particularly as a moral crusader, and enjoys unparalleled popularity in Delhi. His arrest could potentially backfire on the central government, and the BJP may have to face public anger. Whether AAP can capitalize on this sentiment without significant leaders is uncertain.
In these tough times, the future appears uncertain for AAP. However, crises have a way of bringing forth leaders who can provide stability. Perhaps there is a leader within the party who can guide them through these challenging waters and lead them forward.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.
