Swati Maliwal Joins BJP, Citing Inspiration from Modi and Shah
Swati Maliwal's Transition to BJP
On Tuesday, Swati Maliwal, a member of the Rajya Sabha, announced that her decision to leave the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was a voluntary choice, driven by her admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah's work. This shift comes amid growing differences between Maliwal and AAP leadership, particularly as the 2024 elections approach. She is among seven Rajya Sabha members who recently declared their separation from AAP and the merger of their faction with the BJP.
Maliwal formally joined the BJP at the party's Delhi office, where she was welcomed by state president Virendra Sachdeva, Union Minister Harsh Malhotra, MP Yogendra Chandolia, and state general secretary Vishnu Mittal. Speaking to reporters, she expressed her deep respect for the historic contributions made by Modi and Shah, stating, "I have been greatly inspired by their work for the nation, which influenced my decision to join the BJP."
Reflecting on her tenure as the chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women, Maliwal noted that she received substantial support from the BJP and emphasized that her joining the party was not out of necessity. "My decision to join this party was not forced; I have been observing all the initiatives with great interest... I am grateful to God and the entire BJP leadership. I will work with even more strength and support for Delhi," she remarked.
Criticizing AAP, Maliwal accused party chief Arvind Kejriwal of having 'looted' Delhi and ruined the capital's infrastructure during his nearly two terms in office. She pointed out, "The roads were in disrepair; water supply was affected. Residents of Delhi struggled for basic amenities under AAP's rule. The government led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has been working to address these issues over the past two years."
Maliwal also condemned Kejriwal's decision to not appear personally or through a lawyer before Justice Swarn Kanta Sharma in the excise 'scam' case, labeling it as a 'drama.' She stated, "This is not a new occurrence. Arvind Kejriwal has a habit of such theatrics. This tendency has made not only him but the entire AAP notorious for its drama, lies, thuggery, and corruption across the country."
She concluded by urging Kejriwal to reflect on his criticisms of the Prime Minister and the judiciary, calling them personal attacks. "This is why I joined the BJP, and now I will work for the interests of the people of Delhi," she added.