In New Delhi, Punjab’s Chief Executive Bhagwant Mann engaged in dialogue with his Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal within the confines of Tihar penitentiary on Tuesday. Mann relayed that the AAP leader urged him to actively support candidates affiliated with the INDIA coalition in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.
Mann assured the press that Kejriwal’s health remained stable, as he continued to receive insulin treatment and undergo regular medical assessments. Reassuring the populace, the Delhi head encouraged them to exercise their electoral rights during the impending polls.
This marked Mann’s second rendezvous with Kejriwal within the penitentiary walls in a fortnight. Reflecting on the encounter, Mann underscored the physical barrier that separated them, lamenting on the perceived extremity of animosity. Echoing Kejriwal’s sentiments, Mann urged the public to cast their votes without apprehension, emphasizing the significance of preserving democracy.
During their exchange, Mann apprised Kejriwal of his recent foray into Gujarat to bolster the party’s candidates in Bharuch and Bhavnagar. Highlighting the enthusiastic reception received, Mann conveyed widespread discontentment over the treatment meted out to Kejriwal. Extending his support further, Mann disclosed plans to visit Delhi and extend campaign efforts to INDIA bloc nominees in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and beyond, at Kejriwal’s behest.
Emphasizing the ideological stakes of the elections, Mann emphasized the imperative of safeguarding constitutional principles and democratic norms. Kejriwal also inquired about the well-being of Mann’s daughter, fostering a dialogue on familial matters. The exchange extended to discussions on agricultural yields in Punjab and potential impacts of the Model Code of Conduct on public amenities, with Mann assuring Kejriwal of uninterrupted services.
Mann seized the opportunity to celebrate educational milestones in Punjab, sharing news of 158 students from government schools clearing the JEE (Mains) examination for the first time. Kejriwal expressed elation over this educational breakthrough, commending the efforts of educators, parents, and students alike.
In a separate visit on Monday, Kejriwal’s wife Sunita and Delhi Minister Atishi extended their support to him. Kejriwal has been detained in Tihar jail under judicial custody since April 1, in connection to a money-laundering case linked to excise policy.