Punjab Police Withdraws Arvind Kejriwal’s Security Following EC Directions; AAP Reacts Strongly

The Punjab Police has withdrawn additional security provided to Aam Aadmi Party national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, a development confirmed by Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav. This decision was made following directions from the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Delhi Police.

Speaking to the media in Patiala, DGP Yadav said, “We have withdrawn the component of Punjab Police from the security of Kejriwal Ji as per the directions of Delhi Police and the Election Commission.” He further added that the Punjab Police had already submitted its reports on the security threats posed to Kejriwal to the concerned quarters.

“We are extremely worried about the security threats to Arvind Kejriwal. The Punjab Police will continue to collaborate with the Delhi Police and other responsible agencies to ensure the safety of the leaders,” Yadav added.

The Aam Aadmi Party has strongly condemned the decision. Senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh accused the Delhi Police of forcibly removing the Punjab Police security detail assigned to Kejriwal, calling it a politically motivated move.

Singh also pointed out that it was a withdrawal at the worst time, suggesting that Kejriwal was attending a meeting at Kali Bari Marg in Delhi when the order was implemented. “Goons armed with sticks and rods are already present at the venue. I am on my way there. Where is the Election Commission?” Singh observed.

He further complained that the Election Commission was not taking adequate measures despite repeated complaints. “The Election Commission of India should look into this. We are filing complaints, but they are not doing anything about it,” Singh said.

AAP has faced even harsher criticism about the withdrawal of security after a suspected attack on Kejriwal’s vehicle in Hari Nagar, Delhi. The alleged incident carried out by the supporters of another candidate in the fray adds to the concerns over the safety of their leader, Kejriwal.
AAP leaders accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah for orchestrating security threats to the leader as AAP alleged attack happened during Amit Shah’s campaign tour in the national capital.

The development is happening in the midst of an election season that has been quite intense, with Delhi Assembly elections scheduled for February 5, 2025. The counting of votes is set for February 8, and the political atmosphere in Delhi remains charged.

While the Election Commission maintains that the decision was made in compliance with standard security protocols, AAP has labeled it an attempt to undermine their leader’s safety during a critical electoral period. With the elections just weeks away, the issue is likely to spark further political debate, with Kejriwal’s security becoming a focal point of the AAP’s campaign narrative.