Kejriwal’s gamble

ARVIND KEJRIWAL’s decision to resign as Delhi Chief Minister just months before the Assembly elections is a calculated political gamble. After spending nearly six months in custody in the controversial excise policy case, he has chosen to step down and frame the next election as a referendum on his honesty. By doing so, he aims to counter the BJP’s narrative of corruption and regain public sympathy by presenting himself as a victim of political vendetta. His narrative of seeking a ‘certificate of honesty’ from the people taps into his longstanding strategy of appealing directly to voters.

Also, by seeking early elections — three months ahead of schedule — Kejriwal hopes to catch rivals such as the BJP and the Congress off guard. AAP has already started its campaign preparations, while other parties remain focused on national politics. This strategy could give AAP a crucial headstart.

However, even as Kejriwal’s move echoes his 2014 resignation, which led to a landslide win for the AAP in 2015, the gamble is risky as the stakes this time are higher and the challenges more complex. The 2024 Lok Sabha election setback — the party drew a blank in Delhi — has raised concerns about its waning influence and popularity. Graft allegations against top leaders, including Kejriwal, have damaged its image as a crusader against corruption. Governance issues, particularly with regard to civic infrastructure, and the BJP’s relentless attacks have also chipped away at public trust in AAP. On the positive side, AAP’s welfare schemes still resonate with voters. Whether his resignation will once again turn the tide in AAP’s favour or backfire remains to be seen, but it has added fresh intrigue to Delhi’s political scene, including speculation about who will succeed him as the CM.