Veteran social activist Anna Hazare has reacted strongly to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s announcement of his resignation, expressing deep disappointment over Kejriwal’s trajectory in politics. Hazare, who played a pivotal role in the anti-corruption movement alongside Kejriwal, criticized the Delhi CM’s actions, stating that he had warned him against entering politics during their fight for the Lokpal Bill.
Speaking from his village Ralegan Siddhi in Maharashtra, Hazare remarked, “I had told Kejriwal that politics would corrupt his ideals.” He had urged Kejriwal to continue serving society without engaging in politics, warning that political ambition could alter his motivations. This marks another instance where Hazare has distanced himself from Kejriwal’s political journey. Their fallout began when Kejriwal formed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in 2012, shortly after the collapse of the India Against Corruption movement. Hazare had always maintained that their struggle for transparency and anti-corruption should remain non-political.
In his response, Hazare referenced past moments where Kejriwal championed anti-liquor causes during their protests but later introduced liquor policies in Delhi. He expressed disappointment, claiming that Kejriwal’s actions contradict the values they once fought for. According to Hazare, this resignation is a consequence of the choices Kejriwal made after diverging from their original path.
Hazare’s frustration also stems from Kejriwal’s alleged failure to implement the Lokpal and Lokayukta in Delhi. During their movement, the introduction of a strong anti-corruption watchdog was one of their primary goals. Hazare had continuously criticized Kejriwal’s government for not prioritizing this legislation in Delhi, further deepening the rift between the former allies.
Arvind Kejriwal, after facing growing political pressure and controversies, recently announced his resignation. Hazare’s reaction underscores the ideological divide between them, as he remains a staunch advocate for non-political movements aimed at systemic reform. Despite the years that have passed since their split, Hazare continues to maintain that Kejriwal’s involvement in politics has compromised the integrity of their shared mission.
This response comes amidst ongoing debates and discussions surrounding Kejriwal’s governance and the challenges faced by AAP. Hazare’s criticism is a reminder of the once-unified anti-corruption movement that shook India a decade ago, which eventually fractured as its leaders took divergent paths.
In conclusion, Hazare’s reaction is rooted in his longstanding belief that political ambition can undermine genuine efforts to bring about systemic change. His comments following Kejriwal’s resignation serve as a reminder of the idealism that once bound them together, and the disappointment that followed when Kejriwal chose to pursue a political career.
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