The Election Commission (EC) has sought evidence from Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal regarding his controversial claim that the Haryana government was “mixing poison” into the Yamuna River to disrupt Delhi’s water supply. The EC has asked Kejriwal to respond by 8 pm on Wednesday, warning of legal consequences for misleading or inflammatory statements.
Election Commission’s Warning
Citing legal provisions, the EC reminded Kejriwal of potential penalties, including imprisonment of up to three years, for statements that could disrupt public harmony or national integration. It expressed concern that such allegations could exacerbate tensions between neighboring states and create law-and-order challenges, particularly during the dry season.
Earlier, the EC had issued directives to the Haryana government, instructing them to submit a factual report by January 28 on claims regarding increased ammonia levels in the Yamuna water supplied to Delhi.
Allegations by Arvind Kejriwal
Addressing an election rally on January 27, Kejriwal accused the BJP-led Haryana government of attempting to sabotage Delhi’s water supply for political gain. He alleged, “The BJP is trying to leave the people of Delhi thirsty. They are mixing poison in the water being sent from Haryana. This contaminated water is so toxic that it cannot be treated by Delhi’s water treatment plants. The BJP wants to commit mass murder of Delhi residents.”
The AAP leader’s statements come just days before Delhi’s Assembly elections, slated for February 5.
The allegations have triggered strong reactions from various quarters. The BJP-led Haryana government, headed by Nayab Saini, is reportedly preparing to file a defamation case against Kejriwal.
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The Congress party has written to the Election Commission, urging them to take action if the allegations are proven false, suggesting that Kejriwal violated the Model Code of Conduct.
Shilpa Shinde, CEO of DJB, dismissed Kejriwal’s claims as “factually incorrect, without basis, and misleading.” In her letter to the Chief Secretary, she warned that such remarks could incite fear among residents and harm relations with upstream states like Haryana.
Legal and Electoral Implications
The controversy comes at a critical juncture, as the political climate in Delhi heats up ahead of the elections. If the allegations are substantiated, it could deal a blow to the BJP’s standing in the national capital. However, if proven false, Kejriwal may face legal challenges and a potential backlash from voters.
The Haryana government has yet to submit its report on the water quality allegations. Sources indicate that the state administration is confident that its water supply complies with the necessary standards.
This issue highlights the growing tensions between Delhi and its neighboring states over shared resources, with the upcoming elections amplifying the political stakes.
