The latest Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report has delivered a scathing critique of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, accusing it of major irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy. Coming just weeks before the February 5 assembly polls, the report places AAP in a precarious position, challenging its claims of good governance. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his party are grappling with a crisis of credibility that could redefine their political future.
Released on January 11, 2025, the report reveals that lapses in the Excise Policy caused a staggering Rs 2,002 crore loss to the Delhi government, sparking a political firestorm. The Delhi High Court has also criticized the government for delaying 14 CAG reports, raising doubts about its intentions ahead of the elections.
AAP’s Rajya Sabha member, embroiled in the Excise Policy scam, dismissed the report as forged, accusing BJP leaders of defaming the party to tarnish Arvind Kejriwal’s image. This claim has only added to the controversy, with opposition parties using the report to attack AAP’s governance record.
Once hailed as a crusader against corruption, Kejriwal now faces allegations of hypocrisy. Critics have pointed to the opulent “Sheesh Mahal,” his government residence built during the pandemic, as a stark contrast to his promises of simplicity and accountability. Public perception of him as a symbol of integrity has eroded, with many now equating him with India’s most tainted politicians.
Kejriwal’s rise to prominence was catalyzed by his association with Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption movement, which targeted the Congress-led UPA government’s alleged malpractices. Promising transparency and accountability, AAP emerged as a beacon of hope for disillusioned voters. However, the party’s trajectory has since taken a controversial turn. Aligning with parties like the Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal—once criticized for corruption—has raised questions about AAP’s ideological consistency and commitment to its foundational principles.
The CAG report’s findings have provided ammunition to AAP’s opponents, particularly the BJP, which has been relentless in its attacks. Beyond financial irregularities in the Excise Policy, the report highlights lavish expenditures on Kejriwal’s residence, reinforcing the narrative that AAP has strayed far from its “aam aadmi” (common man) roots.
Political analysts believe the report could be a turning point in the elections. Kejriwal’s ability to counter these allegations effectively will be crucial. A failure to address these concerns could lead to significant voter discontent, potentially paving the way for the BJP or other opposition parties to capitalize on the fallout.
To regain credibility, AAP must act decisively. Convening a special session of the Delhi Assembly to address the CAG report’s findings transparently could be a starting point. Visible corrective measures and a renewed focus on its original promises of good governance and accountability will be key to regaining public trust.
However, time is not on their side. With the elections just weeks away, the Opposition is likely to amplify its campaign against AAP, using the CAG report as a central theme. Video campaigns highlighting the “Sheesh Mahal” controversy and other allegations could further sway undecided voters.
The CAG report has magnified the challenges facing AAP at a critical juncture. While the party has weathered controversies in the past, the upcoming elections will reveal whether this latest scandal is a temporary setback or a definitive blow to its political ambitions.
