AAP Plans to ‘Gherao’ PM Modi’s Residence in Delhi Over Kejriwal’s Arrest, Denied Permission by Police
New Delhi, 26th March 2024: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced plans to ‘gherao’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence in Delhi to protest the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the liquor policy case. However, the Delhi Police has clarified that they have not granted permission for the protest.
Arvind Kejriwal was arrested last week by the ED on allegations of money laundering related to the liquor policy scam. The BJP has been demanding Kejriwal’s resignation as Delhi Chief Minister on moral grounds. Kejriwal remains in ED custody until March 28.
In response to the planned protest, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Devesh Kumar Mahla, has implemented additional security measures around PM Modi’s residence and deployed 50 patrolling vehicles in the New Delhi area. However, there are no restrictions on boarding or deboarding at Delhi metro stations.
Certain metro stations have been closed for entry/exit by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation due to security reasons until further notice. AAP leader Durgesh Pathak expressed Delhi residents’ anger towards the BJP for Kejriwal’s arrest, accusing PM Modi of fearing Kejriwal and claiming that Kejriwal’s sole aim is India’s progress.
Section 144 of the CrPC has been enforced around the Prime Minister’s residence, and the Delhi Police has declared that no protests will be allowed. Delhi Traffic Police has established seven diversion points to facilitate smooth vehicular movement during the protest.
Delhi Minister Gopal Rai announced AAP’s intention to ‘gherao’ the Prime Minister’s residence in protest against Kejriwal’s arrest. Kejriwal is accused of soliciting kickbacks from liquor traders in exchange for favours, with the ED identifying him as the “kingpin and key conspirator” behind the now-scrapped policy.
AAP alleges that PM Modi arrested Kejriwal out of fear and to prevent him from campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections. In response, the opposition’s INDIA bloc has called for a rally on March 31 against Kejriwal’s arrest. AAP leaders refrained from celebrating Holi on Monday, citing the festival’s symbolism of victory over evil and injustice, reaffirming their commitment to combating such injustices.
