Politics – Kejriwal Accuses Centre of Pressuring Punjab After ED Searches
Politics – Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday sharply criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-led Central government following fresh Enforcement Directorate searches linked to Punjab Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora.
The ED carried out raids at premises connected to Arora and several others as part of a money laundering investigation registered recently. The action triggered a strong political response from the Aam Aadmi Party leadership, with Kejriwal alleging that Punjab has repeatedly faced pressure from the Centre over the past few years.
Kejriwal Raises Allegations Against Central Government
In a detailed post shared on social media platform X, the former Delhi chief minister claimed that investigative agencies had intensified their activities in Punjab after the conclusion of the West Bengal elections. He alleged that the state and its people had been unfairly targeted through different administrative and political measures.
Kejriwal accused the Union government of trying to create political pressure in Punjab through repeated investigations and raids. He further alleged that the Centre had adopted a hostile approach toward the state in recent years.
Remarks Draw Historical Comparison
During his criticism, Kejriwal drew a comparison between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. He stated that Punjab had historically resisted oppression and would continue to stand firmly against what he described as political intimidation.
The AAP leader said the people of Punjab, inspired by the sacrifices made by Sikh Gurus, would respond strongly to any attempt to suppress the state politically. His remarks are expected to intensify the ongoing political confrontation between the AAP and the BJP ahead of future electoral battles.
Claims Over Punjab’s Rights and Resources
Kejriwal also alleged that several efforts had been made to weaken Punjab’s position on important state matters. According to him, there were repeated attempts to dilute the state’s water rights, interfere in the functioning of Punjab University, and delay or restrict rural development funds meant for the state.
He argued that these developments reflected a broader pattern of pressure being exerted on Punjab by the Centre. However, the Union government has not officially responded to these fresh allegations so far.
Reference to AAP Rajya Sabha MPs
The former Delhi chief minister also referred to the recent political developments involving AAP Rajya Sabha members who joined the BJP earlier this year. Kejriwal alleged that central agencies, including the ED, were used to create pressure on political leaders, contributing to defections from the party.
He claimed that Sanjeev Arora had also been subjected to ED action but had not changed political sides, leading to another round of searches. The Enforcement Directorate has not publicly commented on these political accusations connected to the ongoing probe.
Farmers’ Protest Mentioned in Political Attack
Kejriwal additionally referred to the farmers’ protest movement that led to the repeal of the three farm laws by the Centre in 2021. He stated that Punjab’s farmers had earlier challenged the government and eventually forced it to withdraw the legislation after months of protests.
According to him, the present situation reflects another confrontation between Punjab and the Centre. He claimed the state would continue resisting what he called political and administrative pressure from the BJP-led government.