Mumbai: Veteran social activist Anna Hazare on Saturday criticized AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal following the party’s dismal performance in the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, where the entire AAP leadership was trailing.
Reacting to the results, Hazare attributed AAP’s defeat to “inadequate leadership, scandals, and political controversies,” emphasizing that Kejriwal failed to uphold the values he once stood for. “I have always said that election candidates should possess pure character, a pure mind, and an unblemished reputation. AAP was missing that. They got entangled in liquor and money scandals, tarnishing Arvind Kejriwal’s credibility. That’s why they are struggling to get votes,” Hazare told reporters.
Hazare pointed out the contradiction between Kejriwal’s past advocacy for integrity and his alleged involvement in corruption. He remarked that while accusations are common in politics, maintaining innocence is crucial. “The truth will remain the truth,” he added.
Distancing himself from AAP, Hazare revealed that he had chosen not to associate with the party from its inception. “I decided not to join the party during its formation, and I have kept my distance ever since,” he stated. The activist also emphasized that true leadership should focus on goals rather than rewards, concluding with a sharp remark on Kejriwal’s downfall: “…aur woh doob gaya.”
With AAP’s crushing defeat and BJP’s resurgence in Delhi, Hazare’s comments add to the mounting criticism against Kejriwal’s leadership.
