Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal demonstrated composure and urged for respectful dialogue when his speech was interrupted by chants of “Modi, Modi” during the inauguration of the Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University’s East Delhi campus. The incident took place on Thursday, sparking a heated exchange between members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
In a video that circulated on social media, Kejriwal responded to the hecklers with a smile, appealing for everyone to listen to his speech for five minutes. He invited them to continue with their sloganeering later if they still disagreed with his ideas. The Delhi CM’s calm demeanor garnered support and praise from onlookers.
In a tweet, the Aam Aadmi Party accused BJP workers of causing disruptions at the event. The video clip shared by the party showcased Kejriwal’s composed response and highlighted the need for a civil discourse among political rivals. Kejriwal emphasized that progress in the education system could not be achieved through slogans alone, stating, “If the education system had improved by raising such slogans, it would have happened in the last 70 years.”
Delhi Education Minister Atishi also faced jeering from certain sections of the audience. In a quick-witted retort, she stated, “This is why education is needed,” drawing applause and support from the attendees.
The inauguration ceremony at the Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University’s East Delhi campus became a battleground for the ongoing feud between the AAP-led city government and Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena. Both parties claimed the right to inaugurate the newly built campus, accusing each other of attempting to claim undue credit.
Outside the campus, PTI news agency reported that AAP and BJP workers engaged in sloganeering and clashed amidst the ongoing ceremony. The tensions further escalated as supporters from both parties sought to assert their allegiance.
The incident at the university highlights the deep-seated political divisions that exist within the region. It serves as a reminder of the importance of respectful dialogue and the need for political leaders to rise above partisan differences for the collective betterment of society.
As a democracy, India values the freedom of expression and open discussions, but it is equally essential to ensure that these exchanges remain respectful and constructive. The incident at the IP University event serves as a reminder for all political actors to engage in healthy debates while upholding the values of tolerance, respect, and democratic principles.
