Sunita Kejriwal: The Rising Star of AAP Amidst Crisis
New Delhi: Sunita Kejriwal, wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, has emerged as a pivotal figure in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) following her husband’s incarceration in a liquor scam case. Her increasing involvement in the party is noteworthy, especially given her traditionally low-profile role prior to her husband’s arrest in March.
The upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections present Sunita with a significant opportunity to demonstrate her leadership potential. The uncertainty surrounding whether she will continue her active role once Kejriwal is released remains a key question.
Historically, women from political families have stepped into roles traditionally held by their relatives. Sonia Gandhi, for instance, became a prominent figure in Indian politics as the driving force behind the Congress party. Similarly, Rabri Devi served as Chief Minister of Bihar during her husband Lalu Prasad Yadav’s absence. Sunita Kejriwal, though a newcomer to politics, brings a strong professional background, having served for 22 years in the income tax department, culminating in her role as an I-T commissioner at the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT).
During her husband’s tenure as an activist and later as a political leader, Sunita maintained a supportive but low-profile role. Kejriwal, known for his family-oriented image, frequently campaigned alongside her. Her current involvement highlights her commitment to the party, especially in its time of crisis, with Kejriwal being the only incumbent chief minister in Indian history to refuse resignation despite arrest. Speculation about her potentially succeeding Kejriwal should he resign adds another layer of intrigue to her role.
As the AAP faces significant challenges, including corruption allegations against senior leaders and imminent Assembly elections in Haryana and Delhi, Sunita’s leadership could prove crucial. The party’s future strategy, including candidate selection and coalition formations, will likely be influenced by her actions.
Manish Sisodia, Kejriwal’s deputy, has suggested that Sunita’s role might diminish upon Kejriwal’s release, while AAP MP Sanjay Singh acknowledges her growing influence. Despite her lack of official position within the party, Sunita has actively campaigned and criticized the Modi government, presenting herself as a robust advocate for AAP’s agenda.
Sunita has launched her campaign for the Haryana Assembly elections with five key promises, including free electricity, medical treatment, education, financial aid for women, and youth employment. Her critiques of the BJP and her proactive engagement in election campaigning signal her serious intent.
While Sunita’s ability to maintain party cohesion and effectively convey Kejriwal’s message from prison remains to be tested, her increasing acceptability within the party and her strategic positioning in talks with opposition parties suggest a rising prominence. The forthcoming election results will be crucial in determining her long-term influence and the future political landscape of Delhi.
