EC Seeks Clarification from Kejriwal on Yamuna Poisoning Allegations
New Delhi: The Election Commission (EC) has given a fresh opportunity to AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal to provide specific evidence regarding his allegations that the Haryana government is “mixing poison” in the Yamuna river. This move follows Kejriwal’s earlier claims regarding the contamination of raw water from Haryana, which he described as “highly contaminated and extremely poisonous” to human health.
On Thursday, the EC asked Kejriwal not to conflate the issue of increased ammonia in the river with his allegations of poisoning. The poll body instructed him to provide factual evidence with a detailed and specific response regarding the type, quantity, nature, and manner of the poisoning. Kejriwal was also asked to submit information about the engineers, locations, and methods used by the Delhi Jal Board staff to detect the alleged “poison” by Friday at 11 am. Failure to comply with the request could lead to the EC taking appropriate action.
Kejriwal had previously responded to the Election Commission’s notice, asserting that the contaminated water, if consumed, could pose severe health risks. He further argued that the quality of water received from Haryana was a grave concern for the health and safety of Delhi’s residents.
The Election Commission emphasized that the availability of clean and sufficient water is a key governance issue and should be handled by all concerned governments to ensure the well-being of citizens. While the Commission refrained from intervening in the ongoing water-sharing and pollution concerns, it underscored that such matters should not be politicized during the election period.
The EC’s fresh request comes as a response to Kejriwal’s earlier claims, with the poll body urging a thorough and responsible explanation regarding the serious charges.
