Mayank Gandhi Criticizes Kejriwal for Prioritizing Power Over Core Values
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Mumbai, Jan 10 (NationPress) Mayank Gandhi, a former figure within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has publicly criticized former Delhi Chief Minister and party leader Arvind Kejriwal for veering away from the foundational values upon which the party was established.
In a conversation with IANS on Friday, Gandhi stated, “We entered politics to redefine the political landscape, and this vision was maintained until 2015. However, Kejriwal shifted his emphasis towards acquiring power, thereby forsaking the fundamental principles we championed.”
He elaborated on his choice to exit the party, saying, “My interest lies not in power but in the transformation of our nation. Upon realizing that Kejriwal had altered his course, I made the decision to leave.”
Pointing to controversial events like the construction of the 'Sheesh Mahal', Gandhi asserted, “I became convinced that Kejriwal had opted for power at any price. The nation has been misled by him. We united for change, yet he himself transformed.”
Expressing his personal sorrow, Gandhi remarked: “I abandoned my career and dedicated myself wholly to our cause. It felt like raising a child, only to witness them stray. This betrayal is profoundly painful.”
Mayank Gandhi condemned AAP for purported corruption, especially concerning the excise policy scandal. He questioned, “When the excise scam came to light, Kejriwal swiftly altered the policy. If he was innocent, why would he act in such a manner? There is undeniable corruption involved.”
He further voiced apprehensions regarding AAP's populist initiatives, such as free water and electricity, using Venezuela as an example, asserting that these could be detrimental to the economy.
Gandhi commented on the division of votes between Congress and AAP, suggesting that their inability to unite may inadvertently favor the BJP in the forthcoming elections in Delhi.
Having distanced himself from active political engagement, Gandhi spoke about his current endeavors in rural Maharashtra. He outlined efforts to tackle farmers' issues, including suicide prevention, income generation, and water management in the Parli region of Beed district.
“For the past seven years, I have been focused on enhancing farmers' incomes and addressing water-related challenges. We have successfully planted 5.5 crore trees and are presently active in 4,600 villages. A report from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences indicates that farmers who previously earned Rs 38,000 annually are now making Rs 4 lakh, marking a tenfold increase,” Gandhi informed IANS.
He also shared that he had a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss these accomplishments and explore ways to amplify the impact of his projects.
Reiterating his dedication to social work and his decision to step away from politics, Mayank Gandhi stated, “Politics is now a chapter behind me. My focus is on fostering a sustainable future for farmers and their families, which is why I met CM Fadnavis to enhance our initiatives in Beed.
