In a dramatic incident during a padyatra in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar, a man hurled liquid at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday. The event quickly turned chaotic as security personnel and Kejriwal’s supporters apprehended the man, later identified as Ashok Jha, and handed him over to the police for questioning.
Incident Details
The attack occurred as Kejriwal interacted with supporters during the padyatra. Visuals from the scene showed Kejriwal assessing the situation while security personnel restrained the attacker. According to police sources, the motive behind Jha’s actions is still under investigation.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked a political row, with AAP leaders blaming the BJP for the attack. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi alleged that Ashok Jha is a BJP member, claiming the attack highlights the “deteriorating law and order situation” under the central government’s watch.
AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj also criticized the BJP, accusing them of orchestrating the attack. “Law and order have collapsed in Delhi, and the central government and the Home Minister are not doing anything,” Bharadwaj said.
However, Delhi BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor dismissed the allegations, suggesting that Kejriwal might be resorting to “old tricks” for political mileage ahead of the upcoming Delhi assembly elections. “The BJP has never taken the path of threats or violence in political campaigns. Let the police investigate and reveal the truth,” Kapoor added.
Kejriwal’s Reaction
Arvind Kejriwal, addressing the incident, urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to focus on improving law and order in the capital. The AAP has also taken to social media, questioning the security arrangements in Delhi and demanding accountability.
Background
The incident comes as political tensions rise in Delhi ahead of assembly elections scheduled early next year. With accusations flying across party lines, the incident underscores the heightened political stakes and the charged atmosphere in the national capital.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the motive behind the attack. Further updates are awaited.
Sources By Agencies
