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Criticism of Kejriwal's detention ahead of general elections (94 characters)
Find out more about Arvind Kejriwal and the Indian opposition in the election campaign against Prime Minister Modi. Insight into current events and controversies.
Criticism of Kejriwal's detention ahead of general elections (94 characters)
An Indian court extended prominent opposition leader Arvind Kejriwal's detention until April 15. The decision means that one of India's most influential opposition politicians will remain in prison during the general election, a first in the history of independent India. Kejriwal, who comes from the anti-corruption movement, is the incumbent Chief Minister of Delhi and leads the left-liberal Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This party is part of the opposition alliance called the Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.), which aims to defeat Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the elections.
The timing of Kejriwal's arrest shortly before the elections has drawn criticism both in India and internationally. He is accused of being involved in a scandal surrounding the liberalization of alcohol sales in Delhi and alleged bribes to the AAP. His arrest comes at a time that many perceive as politically motivated. Opposition parties in India have complained about government restrictions and retaliation, including financial restrictions on election campaigns due to alleged late tax returns.
Protests against Kejriwal's detention have already led to large rallies in Delhi, attended by up to 30,000 people. These events have led to more and more opposition politicians speaking of a threat to Indian democracy. Opponents of Modi and the BJP see the action against opposition leaders like Kejriwal as an attempt to weaken the political opposition and strengthen authoritarian tendencies. Both national and international observers are expressing concern about these developments in the world's largest democracy.