In a significant show of defiance and solidarity, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has initiated a mass fast in protest against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other prominent leaders involved in a contentious investigation regarding the Delhi liquor policy. The AAP’s call to action was amplified through a post on the microblogging platform X, urging supporters nationwide and globally to share their participation in the fast through photos and messages, linking to a dedicated website for content upload.

“This is a fast for justice, this is a fast for Arvind Kejriwal,” declared the AAP on X. AAP leader Gopal Rai voiced the widespread discontent among the populace, stating, “Ever since Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested, there is anger across the country. Since the day he was arrested, people are out on the streets, getting themselves arrested in protest.”

At the heart of the controversy is the arrest of Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last month over allegations of money laundering connected to the now-defunct Delhi liquor policy. His judicial custody has been extended until April 15. The AAP has vehemently criticized the use of the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as tools of political vendetta by the central government, a sentiment echoed by Delhi Minister Atishi, who remarked, “Everyone wants Arvind Kejriwal to be released soon. The BJP’s ED and CBI have not been able to show even a single penny of the liquor case linked to AAP leaders.”

Atishi also raised questions about the alleged financial trail leading from liquor baron Sharat Reddy to the BJP, questioning why the BJP was not subjected to similar scrutiny or legal action. The arrest of Kejriwal and subsequent actions against AAP leaders have ignited widespread protests, with supporters converging at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, as encouraged by AAP spokesperson Reena Gupta.

The ED’s scrutiny of the Delhi liquor policy 2021-22 centers on the claim of exorbitantly high profit margins allowed for wholesalers and retailers, with allegations of kickbacks meant for AAP leaders. The so-called “South Group” is accused of having advanced ₹100 crore to AAP associate Vijay Nair as part of the alleged corruption scheme. The investigation aims to unravel a complex web of intermediaries, businessmen, and politicians involved in the policy’s formulation and implementation.

The arrest of Arvind Kejriwal and subsequent mass fasting by the AAP and its supporters represent a pivotal moment in Indian politics, highlighting the tensions between state governments and central agencies. The widespread participation in the protest underscores a growing demand for transparency and fairness in the use of enforcement agencies. As the case unfolds, it will be crucial for all involved to adhere to the principles of justice and the rule of law, ensuring that political affiliations do not cloud the pursuit of truth.

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