BJP questions Arvind Kejriwal's income rise: ‘No other source explained'

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised questions about the significant increase in Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal's income over the years. This comes ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled to be held on February 5, with counting on February 8.

Allegations against Kejriwal

Virendra Sachdeva, president of BJP's Delhi unit, claimed that Kejriwal's income showed an unusual spike during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21. According to his election affidavit, Kejriwal’s declared income was:

• 2019-20: ₹1,57,823
• 2020-21: ₹44,90,040
• 2021-22: ₹1,62,976
• 2022-23: ₹1,67,066
• 2023-24: ₹7,21,530

Sachdeva highlighted that Kejriwal’s income in 2020-21 rose nearly 40 times compared to the previous year, despite his only declared source of income being his salary as a legislator. This dramatic increase, he stated, demands an explanation from Kejriwal, especially since it occurred during a period when most people faced financial difficulties.

Sachdeva pointed out that during Kejriwal’s second term as Delhi’s chief minister (2014-20), his basic taxable salary never exceeded ₹3,60,000 annually. He questioned how Kejriwal managed to declare such high income without any additional sources.

“In 2023-24, Kejriwal’s income was six times higher than in 2022-23. The people of Delhi have a right to know the reasons behind this unusual financial growth,” Sachdeva said.

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The Excise Policy case

This controversy follows Kejriwal’s involvement in the excise policy case. In March 2024, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested him under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED’s chargesheet, filed in May, accused Kejriwal and his party members of accepting bribes totaling ₹100 crore to favor specific liquor traders. It alleged that ₹45 crore from these bribes was used to fund AAP’s campaign in Goa.

The ED described Kejriwal as the “kingpin” behind the irregularities, claiming he orchestrated the illegal funds’ collection and distribution. Along with his former deputy Manish Sisodia and AAP’s ex-media head Vijay Nair, Kejriwal allegedly sought additional kickbacks for election purposes.

The allegations have sparked heated debates as the Delhi polls approach. Critics argue that the questions surrounding Kejriwal’s income and his party’s financial dealings could influence voter perceptions.

Kejriwal has consistently denied these accusations, maintaining that they are politically motivated. However, the BJP continues to pressure him for a detailed explanation regarding his financial growth during the pandemic and the alleged corruption in the excise policy.

As the elections draw closer, this issue is expected to remain a key talking point in Delhi’s political discourse.