Swati Maliwal Attacks Kejriwal, Joins BJP, Praises Modi

In a major political development, Swati Maliwal has launched a sharp attack on Arvind Kejriwal after leaving the Aam Aadmi Party and joining the Bharatiya Janata Party. Maliwal, one of the seven MPs who switched sides, said the party has drifted far from its original ideals and is no longer what it once stood for.

The setback for AAP comes after several prominent leaders, including Raghav Chadha, resigned from the party. Along with Maliwal, leaders like Sandeep Pathak, Harbhajan Singh, and Ashok Mittal were also among those who defected, marking a significant political shift.

Speaking about her decision, Maliwal recalled her long association with the party, saying she had sacrificed her career and worked at the grassroots level. However, she alleged that her experience turned bitter after she tried to file a complaint following an alleged assault incident. She claimed she faced threats and pressure to withdraw the case and was sidelined within the party for refusing to do so.

The 2024 incident, in which Maliwal accused a close aide of Kejriwal of assault at his residence, triggered internal tensions within AAP. Since then, she has emerged as one of Kejriwal’s most vocal critics.

Taking a direct swipe, Maliwal said, “No one can work with Kejriwal for long,” accusing him of inconsistency and driving away capable leaders. She further alleged that the party is now associated with “corruption and misconduct” and warned that more leaders could exit in the coming days.

She also criticised Kejriwal’s leadership style, claiming he no longer represents the image of a “common man” and accusing him of exercising control over governance beyond Delhi.

On the other hand, Maliwal praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying her decision to join the BJP was taken after careful thought. She highlighted India’s growing global presence under his leadership and credited his diplomatic approach for strengthening the country’s position internationally.

Rejecting allegations that opposition leaders join the BJP due to pressure from agencies like ED or CBI, Maliwal said her move was voluntary and based on conviction.

The exit of seven MPs has significantly weakened AAP’s position in the Upper House, while strengthening the BJP-led alliance, potentially making it easier to pass key legislation in Parliament.