Very interesting situation in Delhi. AAP party leader and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejiriwal has been arrested.
Several months ago, back in November, Kejriwal launched a door-to-door campaign in India's capital, asking residents whether he should resign or continue governing from jail.
Mr. Kejriwal, along with other prominent party members, faces allegations of corruption currently under investigation by India's formidable federal financial crime agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
He becomes the third AAP leader to be apprehended in connection with a defunct liquor policy in Delhi, which involved transferring control of the liquor market from the government to private vendors.
Mr. Kejriwal has vehemently opposed the investigation, asserting that the ED has failed to provide "specific" charges against him, and labeling the summons as "generic" and "illegal".
His arrest, a stark contrast to his impactful anti-corruption campaign that swept India in 2011, occurs less than a month before the commencement of India's general elections on April 19. His AAP is part of the 27-party INDIA alliance, aimed at challenging the ruling BJP.
Kejriwal's arrest could weaken the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as it faces internal challenges and public scrutiny over corruption allegations. However, it may also rally support from AAP’s base and the broader opposition alliance (INDIA). If framed as a political vendetta by the ruling BJP, it could strengthen sentiments against the incumbent government.