Chaos Erupts at Arvind Kejriwal’s Padyatra in Delhi as Man Throws Liquid, Security Detains Accused
Tensions flared on Saturday evening during Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal’s padyatra in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar when a man threw liquid at him.
While AAP claimed it was an attempt to “burn” the former Delhi Chief Minister with “spirit,” police maintained the substance was water. The incident has sparked political controversy and raised security concerns.
The Incident: Liquid Thrown at Kejriwal
The altercation occurred as Kejriwal, accompanied by Greater Kailash MLA Saurabh Bharadwaj, walked through a crowded lane greeting supporters. Police had placed ropes to manage the crowd, and security personnel were on-site.
At around 5:50 pm, Ashok Jha, identified as a bus marshal from Khanpur depot, allegedly threw liquid at Kejriwal.
According to DCP (South) Ankit Chauhan, “The attempt was immediately foiled as police in close proximity apprehended Jha and detained him. The motives behind his actions are under investigation.”
Despite the heavy security presence, the man managed to throw the liquid, which also splashed on security personnel accompanying Kejriwal.
AAP’s Allegations: Was it Spirit?
AAP leaders alleged that the liquid thrown was “spirit,” and there was an attempt to set Kejriwal on fire. Saurabh Bharadwaj claimed during a press conference, “They were successful in throwing the spirit but were not able to light the match.”
In a video circulating online, Kejriwal can be seen wiping his face, visibly affected by the incident. Bharadwaj alleged that another individual was present with matches to carry out the act but was prevented by alert supporters and security personnel.
Police Perspective: Claims of Water, Not Spirit
Delhi Police refuted AAP’s claims, stating that preliminary investigation indicated the substance was water. An officer said, “Samples are being collected from the spot for testing.”
Ashok Jha, who was detained, told police he was frustrated over unpaid salary dues. While police continue to investigate his motives, they have found no evidence so far linking him to a larger conspiracy.
Political Accusations Fly
The incident has deepened the ongoing political rivalry between AAP and the BJP. AAP alleged that Ashok Jha was associated with the BJP. Bharadwaj said, “BJP is upset after failing to maintain law and order in Delhi.”
Kejriwal took to social media, targeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah, saying, “Amit Shah ji, will crime in Delhi reduce if you stop me? Will women and businessmen become safe? Will open shootouts stop?”
Delhi BJP leaders dismissed these allegations, accusing AAP of politicizing the incident. BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor remarked, “Anybody can join BJP online. One is a BJP cadre only when assigned party work.”
Security Concerns Raised
The padyatra was held without prior police permission, according to DCP Chauhan. Despite this, police had deployed personnel to ensure crowd control and safety.
AAP criticized the BJP-led Central government for the lapse in law and order. Bharadwaj noted, “This is the third attack on Kejriwal in the last 35 days. Earlier, attempts were made in Vikaspuri and Nangloi.”
The Delhi Police, which falls under the Union Home Ministry, stated it had provided adequate security for the event.
Broader Reactions
The incident drew sharp reactions from political leaders across the spectrum. AAP MP Raghav Chadha condemned the attack, calling it “cowardly” and highlighting the worsening law-and-order situation in Delhi. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann described the act as “utterly shameful.”
On the other hand, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva suggested the incident could be staged, saying, “Why do such incidents happen only with Kejriwal?”
Investigation Underway
Ashok Jha remains in custody, and police are examining CCTV footage and his call records to determine whether others were involved. While Jha claimed frustration over unpaid dues led to his actions, investigators are exploring potential political motives.
AAP leaders continue to allege a pattern of attacks on Kejriwal, linking them to BJP’s frustration over political losses. However, BJP maintains the accusations are baseless and part of a smear campaign.
This incident has not only heightened political tensions but also spotlighted the challenges of securing high-profile events. The investigation’s findings will be crucial in determining whether the attack was a solitary act of frustration or part of a larger scheme.
