New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal declared on Sunday that he will step down from his position within the next two days, signaling a call for early elections in November. Addressing a large gathering, Kejriwal shared his decision to resign, expressing his readiness for what he termed an “Agni Pariksha” (trial by fire) and appealing directly to the people of Delhi for their support.
“I will not continue to sit on the Chief Minister’s chair until the people of Delhi announce their verdict,” Kejriwal said, emphasizing the importance of public trust in his leadership. “In two days, I will resign. Elections are just months away, and I am prepared for the people’s decision.”
Kejriwal also revealed that a new Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader will be selected as the interim Chief Minister until the elections conclude. “A meeting will be held in 2-3 days to decide on the next CM,” he stated, adding that both he and AAP leader Manish Sisodia would be going to the “people’s court” and that their political future was in the hands of the public.
In his bold speech, Kejriwal sent a strong message to other non-BJP chief ministers across the country. Referring to his recent legal troubles, he said, “Running a government from jail is possible if we all work together. It’s not about power or the CM’s position; it’s about defending the Constitution and our democracy. We must not resign if falsely imprisoned by the Prime Minister.”
This announcement follows Kejriwal’s release from jail just two days earlier, after being granted bail by the Supreme Court. He had been imprisoned for six months, facing accusations related to a controversial liquor scam. Kejriwal, however, vehemently denied the charges, calling them politically motivated.
Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who also faced legal action, echoed Kejriwal’s sentiments. “The BJP drafted a fantasy story named the ‘liquor scam’. The Supreme Court gave bail to Arvind Kejriwal and ended that story… Today, it’s a happy ending for us and a sad ending for the BJP,” Sisodia remarked, adding that the BJP’s alleged plans to keep Kejriwal jailed until the Delhi elections had failed.
Kejriwal’s fiery speech concluded with a direct appeal to the people of Delhi: “I urge you all to vote for me if you find me honest. If not, then don’t. I am ready to face the ultimate test in the people’s court.”