Atishi, a key figure in the Delhi government, expressed apprehension regarding the potential imposition of President's Rule in the national capital in response to Arvind Kejriwal's arrest, branding it as a clear case of vindictiveness in politics. She highlighted the provisions of The Representation of the People Act which dictate that a lawmaker should be disqualified if convicted, questioning the grounds on which President's Rule may be declared and asserting that the GNCTD Act specifies that a chief minister must enjoy majority support in the House.
Addressing the statements made by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena that the Delhi government would not function from jail, Atishi referenced the Supreme Court's stance that President's Rule should only be implemented when there are no other viable options available. In the context of Arvind Kejriwal's potential resignation, AAP leaders emphasized his intent to continue governing from within prison, insisting on their stance despite legal complexities surrounding the matter. Atishi stressed that the law is explicit about the conditions under which President's Rule can be imposed, cautioning that any such move under the current circumstances would be indicative of political revenge.
Moreover, Atishi raised concerns about the potential misuse of investigative agencies to target opposition governments, illustrating a worrisome scenario where opposition chief ministers might face unwarranted arrests and ultimatums to resign or face governmental destabilization. She accused the BJP of potential involvement in the excise policy case, implying bias in the investigation process. The ongoing situation, stemming from Kejriwal's arrest in a money laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy, has heightened tensions within the political landscape of Delhi.