Arvind Kejriwal stopped from meeting AAP workers in Rajkot Jail; alleges mistreatment of farmers, denial of water and food, and calls BJP government dictatorial.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said he was stopped from meeting party workers lodged in Rajkot Jail, who were arrested following violent clashes at a kisan mahapanchayat in Hadadad village, Botad, on October 12. The jailed leaders face charges including attempt to murder and criminal conspiracy.

Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal condemned the denial of his visit and criticized the Gujarat government’s approach toward political and farmer-related dissent.

“I had sought permission to meet the imprisoned AAP leaders, but I was barred. What could be more dictatorial than this? Am I being treated like a terrorist? Even during British rule, freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh were allowed to meet their colleagues. Are we now facing a government more cruel than the British?” he remarked.

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Farmers’ Protest and Alleged Atrocities

Kejriwal referred to the kadada pratha, which triggered the Botad agitation. Farmers allege they were forced to accept lower compensation (Rs 1,200 instead of Rs 1,500), leading to protests. Kejriwal stated that the BJP government responded with lathi-charge, filed false cases, and arrested 88 farmers, attempting to demoralize them.

He further alleged that those in custody were denied water for 24 hours, given no food, and physically assaulted, questioning the state’s governance.

Broader Concerns: Drugs, Paper Leaks, and Governance

Kejriwal also highlighted issues such as drug proliferation in Gujarat and paper leaks in government exams, saying families and communities are suffering under the current administration. He claimed, “After 30 years, Gujarat has been reduced to drugs and potholes. People are now rising against this misrule.”

AAP as an Alternative in Gujarat

Kejriwal emphasized that the Aam Aadmi Party is emerging as a credible alternative to BJP and Congress, with leaders like Gopal Italia, Isudan Gadhvi, Raju Karpara, Pravin Ram, Chaitar Vasava, and Manoj Sorathiya gaining public trust. “Earlier, people had no alternative. But now AAP is being discussed in every household. BJP and Congress offer no hope to Gujarat’s citizens,” he said.

Promise to Farmers and Political Action

Kejriwal vowed to address false cases if AAP comes to power in Gujarat: “Every false FIR will be closed within 24 hours, and ministers harassing farmers will face legal action. We will fight for the people, no matter what the government does.”

This incident underscores rising tensions between political parties in Gujarat and highlights AAP’s efforts to support farmers and challenge BJP’s governance in the state ahead of upcoming elections.