Lok Sabha 2024: Amid the penultimate poll clash in Delhi during the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a stinging attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Without directly naming the AAP convener, he questioned how someone facing serious corruption charges could be interviewed by the media.
Kejriwal, who spent 40 days in Tihar jail due to the liquor policy case, is out on bail and actively campaigning. He claims the charges are part of a conspiracy against him and vows that he will not return to jail if his party wins.
In an exclusive interview with News18, the prime minister was asked about Kejriwal portraying his bail as a victory. Modi pointed out the harsh observations made by the Delhi High Court regarding the case. “The matter is sub judice, so it’s inappropriate for me to comment in detail. However, focusing on the court’s statements, the high court has made strict observations about the liquor policy case,” he said.
Prime Minister Modi expressed concern over the lack of accountability in public life. “What is troubling is the erosion of accountability in public life. There was a time when even minor wrongdoings, like a student caught cheating, would result in serious repercussions and societal disapproval. Now, those facing serious charges are being celebrated and glorified by the media,” he said.
#BreakingNews: PM gave yet another interview to News18 Network. He took a jibe at Kejriwal & said 'this is a man who is out on bail, how can media interview someone like him?' @amitabhnews18 @AmanKayamHai_ @AmanChopra_ @payalmehta100 | @AnchorAnandN#PMModiToNews18 pic.twitter.com/JEB8fb3iQA
— News18 (@CNNnews18) May 25, 2024
Modi equated Kejriwal’s media coverage to the celebrity-like status of criminal Charles Sobhraj, expressing his worry about this moral decline. “Today, those who have faced or are facing serious charges are celebrated without shame. This moral degradation in society concerns me deeply, beyond any individual case,” he remarked.
He continued, “In the past, newspapers glorified the exploits of dacoits. Now, corrupt politicians receive similar treatment. I am shocked to see how the media interviews corrupt individuals. Previously, only criminals like Charles Sobhraj received such attention.”