Arvind Kejriwal has responded to the Election Commission’s notice regarding his statements on the quality of Yamuna water. He defended his remarks, stating that they were made in the public interest to highlight the severe contamination and toxicity of raw water received from Haryana.
Kejriwal argued that his statements were not intended to create division but to bring attention to a serious public health issue. He maintained that Delhi relies on Haryana for its water supply and that the contamination levels had increased to dangerous levels.
He cited a letter from the CEO of the Delhi Jal Board, which stated that ammonia levels in the Yamuna had risen significantly due to the mixing of untreated sewage or industrial waste upstream.
He emphasised that the highly polluted water was beyond the capacity of Delhi’s treatment plants to purify and that consuming such water posed serious health risks. He contended that his remarks were not in violation of the Model Code of Conduct and were protected under the right to free speech.
The controversy began when Kejriwal, during an election rally on January 27, accused the BJP of attempting to deprive Delhi residents of clean water for political reasons.
He alleged that toxic substances were being mixed into the Yamuna, rendering the water untreatable. His remarks sparked criticism from BJP and Congress leaders, who demanded evidence to support his claims.
In response, the Election Commission issued a notice, asking Kejriwal to provide factual proof. He submitted his reply by the deadline, citing the Delhi Jal Board’s report as evidence.
He reiterated that his statements were made in good faith to address a critical civic issue and ensure safe drinking water for Delhi residents.
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