Congress Faces Setback as Arvind Kejriwal is Acquitted in Liquor Policy Case

Political Implications of Kejriwal's Acquittal

The recent acquittal of Arvind Kejriwal in the alleged liquor policy scandal has dealt a significant blow to the Congress party. With the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) currently governing Punjab and the state assembly elections approaching next year, Congress views itself as a strong contender for power. There are concerns that if Kejriwal gains public sympathy, AAP could reclaim control in Punjab. Additionally, Congress fears that Kejriwal's emergence as a counter to Rahul Gandhi, who has been consistently challenging Prime Minister Modi on various issues, could undermine their political strategy.

Despite being part of the opposition alliance, the reaction from Congress leaders following Kejriwal's release has been one of shock. Following the acquittal of Kejriwal and others, Congress has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of presenting AAP's leader as a 'cleaned-up' figure to weaken the main opposition party ahead of the Gujarat and Punjab elections. Pawan Khera, head of Congress's media department, claimed that the BJP acts like a 'wishful serpent' that changes its form solely to defeat Congress, suggesting that they are willing to stoop to any level to achieve a Congress-free India.

In response to Khera's remarks, AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal questioned the integrity of Congress leaders, asking rhetorically why prominent Congress figures like Robert Vadra and Rahul Gandhi have not faced similar legal troubles. He expressed disbelief at Congress's audacity to criticize others.

Furthermore, Delhi Congress president Devendra Yadav commented on the timing of such events, suggesting that they often coincide with state elections. He raised concerns about the timing of the court's decision, noting its proximity to the Gujarat assembly elections. Meanwhile, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari mentioned that the CBI is planning to appeal in a higher court.