BJP Questions Arvind Kejriwal's Decision to Delay Resignation, Atishi Offers Clarification

On Sunday, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal shocked both his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) members and opposition parties like the BJP and Congress when he announced his intent to resign, just two days after being released from Delhi's Tihar Jail. Kejriwal, who was jailed in connection with the excise policy graft case, told AAP workers at the party headquarters that he would not return to office until he received a "certificate of honesty" from the people of Delhi.

In a surprising turn, Kejriwal emphasized that he has no desire for power, stating, "I will resign in two days and ask the people whether they believe I am honest. I will not resume the role of Chief Minister until they confirm it." The announcement sparked speculation about his potential successor, with names such as his wife Sunita and Delhi Ministers Atishi and Gopal Rai being discussed.

While Kejriwal claimed he is stepping down to undergo an "agnipariksha" (trial by fire) after his release from jail, the BJP quickly criticized his two-day timeline. "Why does he need 48 hours to resign? He should step down immediately," said BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi during a press conference, accusing Kejriwal of staging a political drama to either secure a replacement or make strategic adjustments.

Delhi Minister Atishi addressed this criticism by explaining that the two-day delay was due to practical reasons, as Sunday was a non-working day, and Monday a public holiday for Eid-e-Milad. "The next working day is Tuesday, hence the delay," she clarified.

Meanwhile, Congress, too, weighed in, with party leader Sandeep Dikshit dismissing Kejriwal's resignation bid as a "gimmick." Dikshit argued that the Supreme Court's decision to impose conditions barring Kejriwal from entering the Chief Minister’s office or signing documents shows the severity of the case. He added that such restrictions have never been placed on any other Chief Minister, implying the judiciary views Kejriwal as potentially tampering with evidence.

Kejriwal also called for early elections in Delhi, proposing that the state polls be held alongside Maharashtra’s in October, with an interim AAP leader assuming his role until then. He referenced his earlier resignation in 2014 over the Jan Lokpal Bill, stating, "I resigned then for my principles. I have no hunger for power."

In his closing remarks, Kejriwal reiterated that the excise policy case could continue for some time, and he would only return to power if the people deem him honest. "For me, the people matter more than any political party," he concluded.