Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday joined protesters at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, where demonstrations over the alleged paper leak issue continued, and strongly criticised the Modi government over Monday's police action against students and youth.
Addressing a press conference at the AAP headquarters, Kejriwal alleged that the police used excessive force on peaceful protesters, claiming that the action was unprecedented. He accused the Centre of unleashing brutality on students, saying videos circulating on social media showed police baton-charging unarmed youths and women despite them pleading for restraint. He also alleged that tear gas shells were fired even at small groups of protesters.
Kejriwal further claimed that several students had been booked in "false cases" and alleged that some parents were unable to locate their children after the protest. He said the AAP had constituted a legal team to assist those facing arrests or legal action.
AAP chief announced a legal assistance helpline — 8588833548 — for students and families seeking legal, medical or other support. He appealed to people to send messages instead of calling, assuring that party volunteers would respond and provide assistance.
Responding to questions about his absence from Monday's protest, Kejriwal said he was in Punjab due to prior commitments but stated that both his children participated in the demonstration and were present at locations where tear gas was reportedly used. He added that AAP leaders and workers stood alongside the protesters and vowed that the party would continue supporting the students' movement.
The allegations made by Kejriwal have not been independently verified, and there was no immediate response from Delhi Police or the Central government to his claims at the time of reporting.
