Kejriwal our hero, he’ll emerge stronger: Echoes at Jantar Mantar

FROM PEOPLE who have backed him since his protest days in 2011 to those who have warmed up to him only recently — Jantar Mantar was abuzz with supporters from different parts of Delhi and walks of life on Sunday as the AAP held a daylong fast to protest the arrest of its convener and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy case.

The atmosphere at the Jantar Mantar — the very spot where Kejriwal along with Anna Hazare and other anti-corruption crusaders started a protest 13 years ago, culminating in the formation of the AAP a year later — crackled with energy as supporters sat under a tent and raised their voices in unison against what they called the divisive tactics of the Bjp-led Central government.

“He (Kejriwal) has beenarrested due to the elections ;( prime Minister Narendra) Modiji does not want another party to come to power. They claim they will get 400 seats, then why are they arresting opposition leaders?” said J as win der sing hf rom ti la kn agar, who has been associated with the party since the 2011 movement.

“Kejriwal is our hero,” exclaimed Bal Kishan Sharma, a wholesale clothing seller from Burari. “When Anna ji sat on anshan (fast) on April 5, 2011, I was here... Anna ji does not support Kejriwal anymore but his words do not matter to us because the CM has proved himself by working for the citizens,” he said.

For Usha Devi, a 65-year-old supporter, Kejriwal is like a son. “Anna ji cautioned Kejriwal against entering politics yet his unwavering commitment to serving the nation propelled him into the field. I am confident he will emerge from this or deal stronger .”

Meera, a party worker from Samaypur Badli who arrived in a saari with ‘mata ka paath’ printed all over it, said: “I am wearing this special saari to pray for Arvind ji’s timely bail. He’s like a god to us... Manish Sisodia ji was doing such great work but he too was jailed...”

Citing the free electricity scheme, Raj Kumar Tonk, a cement trader from Karawal Nagar, said: “All those who stand by Kejriwal are from humble backgrounds — the very people he has tirelessly worked for. The BJP has only worked for the rich and the wealthy.”

Bengaluru-resident Shalini Naidu, who is visiting her son in Gurgaon, said that she views Kejriwal's arrest as a departure from moral values by the current government. “Earlier, I supported Modi ji, but now I no longer see him as a good leader,” she added.

Far han aanj um, another party supporter, said she supports Kejriw al for his“inclusive politics ”. “I am already on fast due to Ramzan but had to step out to express my support,” she added.