New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently in custody of the Enforcement Directorate, has issued his second order from inside the lock-up, reinforcing the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) commitment to governance despite his incarceration.
The Chief Minister’s latest directive, communicated by Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, pertains to ensuring access to free medicines and pathological tests at government-run Mohalla clinics. Mr. Bharadwaj emphasized Mr. Kejriwal’s determination to prevent any inconvenience faced by Delhi residents due to his absence.
“Irrespective of his physical location, Mr. Kejriwal’s concern remains the well-being of Delhi’s citizens. He wants to ensure that every underprivileged person visiting government hospitals or Mohalla clinics receives necessary medications and diagnostic tests free of cost,” stated Mr. Bharadwaj during a press briefing.
Highlighting Mr. Kejriwal’s proactive approach to governance, Mr. Bharadwaj emphasized that the Chief Minister is deeply committed to addressing the needs of Delhiites even while in custody. “His dedication is unwavering, and we, as his team, are fully committed to executing his directives with utmost urgency,” he added.
Earlier, on Sunday, Delhi minister Atishi had shared Mr. Kejriwal’s first directive from jail, which focused on ensuring adequate water supply to areas facing shortages and addressing sewer problems.
However, the AAP’s assertion of maintaining governance from jail has drawn criticism from BJP MP Manoj Tiwari, who accused the party of orchestrating a scripted narrative. Mr. Tiwari dismissed the idea of running a government from jail, likening it to the operation of criminal gangs.
The Chief Minister’s week-long custody follows his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case related to Delhi’s now-defunct liquor policy. The AAP has vehemently denied all allegations, attributing the arrests to political vendetta orchestrated by the BJP-led Centre.
Despite the legal challenges, the AAP remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the people of Delhi, affirming that Mr. Kejriwal will continue to discharge his duties as Chief Minister from his current confinement.
As the political tussle ensues, the focus remains on the AAP’s resilience in navigating through adversities while striving to fulfill its governance responsibilities.