Arvind Kejriwal Raises Five Tough Questions for RSS Chief at Janta Ki Adalat
Kejriwal Challenges RSS to Clarify Stance on Modi's Political Tactics and Leadership Ethics
In a public event at Jantar Mantar titled Janta Ki Adalat, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal directly addressed RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat with five critical questions, challenging the role of the RSS in shaping the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's political strategies.
The event, attended by a large crowd, saw Kejriwal question the ethics of Modi’s governance, particularly his treatment of opposition leaders, as well as RSS's role in BJP's politics. Kejriwal accused Modi of undermining democracy by using central agencies to intimidate political rivals and raised concerns over BJP's growing autonomy from its ideological parent, the RSS.
Key Questions Raised by Kejriwal
Democracy and Abuse of Power
Kejriwal’s first question tackled the use of investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against political opponents. "Is it right for the democracy of the country that Modi Ji is breaking the leaders of other parties across the country by luring them or by showing the fear of ED and CBI?" he asked Bhagwat, adding that such tactics are harmful for Indian democracy.
Corruption Allegations and BJP’s Integrity
Kejriwal accused Modi of making corrupt leaders join the BJP, referencing leaders whom Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier labeled as corrupt. “Did you imagine such a BJP, where the most corrupt leaders join its ranks after being called out by Modi Ji himself?” he questioned, challenging the RSS to clarify its stance on this form of politics.
RSS’s Role in Guiding BJP
Kejriwal reminded Bhagwat of the historical ties between the RSS and BJP, asking if the RSS had ever questioned Modi's actions. "BJP was born from the womb of RSS. Have you ever asked Modi Ji not to indulge in such practices?" Kejriwal asked, hinting at the RSS’s responsibility to ensure BJP doesn't stray from its core values.
Nadda's Remarks on RSS
The Delhi Chief Minister expressed concern over BJP President JP Nadda’s alleged comment during an election that the BJP no longer needs RSS. "RSS is like the mother of BJP. Has the son grown so much that he is now showing his eyes to the mother?" Kejriwal remarked, wondering aloud if Nadda’s comments hurt RSS workers and leaders.
Retirement Rule for Leaders Over 75
In his final question, Kejriwal pointed out the BJP's rule that leaders must retire after reaching the age of 75, a rule that had applied to senior leaders like LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi. "Amit Shah Ji says that this rule will not apply to Modi Ji. Do you agree that the rule which applied to Advani Ji will not apply to Modi Ji?" he asked, raising questions about the consistency of BJP's leadership policies.
Kejriwal’s Challenge to RSS
The pointed questions come at a time when Kejriwal has been positioning himself as a key opposition leader, vocally criticizing the BJP's political tactics. By addressing Mohan Bhagwat directly, Kejriwal placed the RSS in a spotlight, questioning its current influence over BJP and its role in steering the party’s political direction.
Kejriwal’s public interrogation at Janta Ki Adalat highlighted the growing rift between opposition leaders and the BJP-led central government, with many accusing Modi's administration of undermining democratic principles through the use of investigative agencies to target political rivals.
While there has been no immediate response from RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat or the BJP, Kejriwal’s questions have sparked widespread debate about the ethical foundations of India's ruling party and the role of its ideological mentor.
The coming days will likely see further political ripples as both BJP and RSS supporters react to Kejriwal’s bold confrontation in the heart of the capital.