New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal asserted on Wednesday that his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, is unlikely to contest elections in the future, emphasizing that she has no interest in active politics despite her prominent public presence following his arrest.
In an interview with PTI, Kejriwal discussed a range of topics, including the “humiliation” he endured during his incarceration, the allegations against him, his family’s experiences, and the prospects of the opposition INDIA bloc in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
“Sunita has supported me at every stage of my life. I am fortunate to have a partner like her. Tolerating someone as eccentric as me is not easy,” Kejriwal remarked.
He recounted that in 2000, he took a leave from his position as an income tax commissioner to work in Delhi’s slums and later resigned to dedicate himself fully to social work. “At that time, I had no idea I would become a chief minister or form a party and contest elections. I was just driven and worked for 10 years. Even then, she supported me. Imagine what she must have endured!”
Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 in connection with a money laundering case and alleged irregularities related to Delhi’s liquor excise policy from 2021 to 2022. He was released on interim bail on May 10 to campaign for his Aam Aadmi Party in the ongoing general elections.
Following his arrest, Sunita Kejriwal, a former income tax officer, assumed a prominent role within the party, delivering Kejriwal’s messages from jail, conducting roadshows, and speaking at opposition rallies.
When asked if she would continue her political role, Kejriwal responded, “When I was arrested, she served as a bridge between me and Delhi’s residents. It was a temporary phase. She has no interest in active politics and will not contest elections in the future.”
Regarding whether Sunita Kejriwal would continue his work if he were to be re-incarcerated, the Chief Minister stated, “We will approach the court to secure facilities in jail that allow me to continue my duties as Chief Minister of Delhi.”
Kejriwal described his wife as a brave and strong woman and noted that his two children are also becoming resilient and courageous.
