Former Supreme Court Judge N Santosh Hegde has expressed his disappointment with Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi and leader of the Aam Aadmi Party. In a recent statement, Justice Hegde criticized Kejriwal for his alleged involvement in a money-laundering case related to the excise policy. The former judge, who was a key figure in the India Against Corruption movement led by Anna Hazare, lamented the perceived lack of administrative fairness in AAP’s governance.
Justice Hegde’s comments highlight a growing disillusionment with Kejriwal and his party, which was originally founded on the principles of transparency and anti-corruption. The former judge emphasized the dangers of power and greed, suggesting that the pursuit of political power can lead to corruption and moral compromise.
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Hegde’s criticism of Kejriwal’s actions is particularly significant given his previous association with the Aam Aadmi Party. As a former supporter of the India Against Corruption movement, Hegde had hoped that AAP would bring about positive change in Indian politics. However, he ultimately distanced himself from the party, citing concerns about the pervasive corruption in the political system.
The former judge’s remarks also touched on the broader issue of corruption in Indian politics. He expressed skepticism about the ability of any political party to effectively combat corruption, noting that the India Against Corruption movement had originally aimed to clean up the administration without directly engaging in partisan politics. Hegde’s decision to reject Kejriwal’s invitation to join AAP underscores his commitment to maintaining a principled stance against corruption.
In addition to his criticism of Kejriwal, Justice Hegde commented on the use of Central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation in corruption cases. He dismissed allegations of political bias, arguing that such actions are a necessary part of the criminal justice system. Hegde’s remarks suggest a nuanced understanding of the complexities of corruption investigations and the challenges of balancing political interests with the pursuit of justice.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, N Santosh Hegde urged voters to consider the quality of candidates rather than affiliations or caste considerations. He emphasized the importance of exercising the right to vote and encouraged voters to choose candidates who are best suited to serve their constituencies. Hegde’s call for informed and responsible voting reflects his commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in Indian politics.
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Overall, Justice Hegde’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding ethical standards in public life. His critique of Kejriwal and the broader political landscape underscores the need for integrity and honesty in governance. As India prepares for a pivotal election, Hegde’s words carry a powerful message about the responsibilities of both politicians and citizens in upholding the principles of democracy and good governance..
Totally disappointed with Arvind Kejriwal, says former Supreme Court judge N Santosh Hegde
Bengaluru:
Former Supreme Court Judge N Santosh Hegde said today he was “totally disappointed” with Aam Aadmi Party leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who was arrested in connection with an excise policy linked money-laundering case.
Justice (retd) Hegde, a former Solicitor General of India, was among the key personalities, including Mr Kejriwal, behind the then ‘India Against Corruption’ movement, spearheaded by Anna Hazare, more than a decade ago, which had at the time brought the issue of corruption into sharp focus.
“It clearly shows that when in power, greed overtakes you,” he said on the case against Arvind Kejriwal.
“I am totally disappointed. I thought AAP (after it came to power) will uphold administrative fairness which is not there. And it is an indication of the fact that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” he told Press Trust of India.
After a part of the movement became a political party (AAP), Justice (retd) Hegde, the former Karnataka Lokayukta, came out of it.
“Special reason for coming out was that politics today is a den of corruption. No political party is free from it. The India Against Corruption movement was fighting against corruption in administration.
It was our principle that we will stay out of politics and try to clean politics. But then a group of people decided that we should enter into politics (and then went on to form AAP) and clean it which I never believed can be done successfully. And I think what’s happening today in AAP is an example of what I thought was correct,” Mr Hegde said.
He said Arvind Kejriwal had come home to invite him to join the party but he did not agree.
Mr Hegde also shared his views on oft-repeated allegations levelled by opposition parties against the BJP-led NDA government of misusing Central agencies like ED and CBI in corruption cases and targeting them.
“Allegation of parties in opposition that the ruling party is doing it only for destroying opposition, I don’t believe it. Yes, they are selectively doing this. But that is no offence at all. Because in criminal jurisprudence, there is no Article 14 (of the Constitution)…does not apply equality.
“And one day when they will come to power, they will go against the BJP. So, ultimately there will be complete justice, is it? If they don’t do it against the opposition, then when they come to power they won’t do it against these people also. At least 50 per cent justice is being done now,” he said.
In the coming Lok Sabha elections, Hegde said he wants every eligible person to vote.
“Vote not based on any caste, or any affiliation whatsoever, vote based on the quality of the candidate. If you don’t find a suitable candidate who would serve your constituency, then there is NOTA (None of the Above). Vote for NOTA. That will send a message to political parties that every ‘Tom, Dick and Harry’ is not a suitable politician,” he said.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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