Interview: Arresting Arvind Kejriwal biggest blunder of PM Modi; it will benefit Aam Aadmi Party, says Saurabh Bharadwaj

It’s been over two weeks since Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor scam case. Kejriwal has been running office from behind bars at a time when his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), part of the Opposition ,  is aspiring to make a mark by winning some seats in the Lok Sabha elections 2024. 

LiveMint spoke with Delhi's Minister of Health, Urban Development and Tourism to discuss Kejriwal’s arrest, its impact on upcoming elections, its connection with electoral bonds and the future of . Excerpts from the interview: 

So first of all, I think it is known to everybody that all the portfolios in the Delhi government have been divided among the six ministers. , the Chief Minister, does not have any particular portfolio under him. You don't need a chief minister for the day-to-day affairs of the government. 

Secondly, it's a blessing that the election model code of conduct is in place across the country. You cannot bring out major policies. You cannot take major policy decisions. You cannot convene cabinet meetings where you need the presence of the . So basically, it's business as usual in Delhi.

But Arvind Kejriwal is also the chief of Aam Aadmi Party. How is the party managing without its supremo?

Yes, it is unfortunate that the national convener of a national political party is in jail when the country is going to Lok Sabha polls. And it is against a level playing field which has been mandated in the . However, we are dealing with this challenge. 

Soon after his arrest on March 21, there was apprehension that the government may fall. But later, we realised that there is a strong sentiment attached to Kejriwal. Even though he is behind bars, Arvind Kejriwal’s absence is