Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: A heated exchange has erupted between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Tihar Jail administration concerning the health status of Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal. AAP leaders assert that Kejriwal is experiencing rapid weight loss and deteriorating health while in prison, allegations that jail authorities strongly refute as attempts to intimidate the administration.
AAP leaders claim that Kejriwal has lost 8.5 kg since his incarceration, suggesting a conspiracy to harm him behind bars. In response, Tihar jail officials released a detailed report on his health. Kejriwal, arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a corruption case linked to Delhi’s now-scrapped liquor policy, had been out on bail for a brief period before returning to Tihar Jail.
The jail administration provided specific details on Kejriwal’s weight:
- April 1: 65 kg (upon entering Central Jail No. 2)
- May 10: 64 kg (post-Supreme Court bail)
- June 2: 63.5 kg (upon surrendering again)
- Currently: 61.5 kg
AAP MP Sanjay Singh contested these figures, claiming Kejriwal weighed 70 kg at the time of his arrest and now weighs 61.5 kg, indicating a severe health issue.
Jail authorities attribute the weight loss to potential low food intake or low-calorie consumption, with the prison’s medical officer continuously monitoring Kejriwal’s health. “The undertrial prisoner (UTP) is under the 24/7 supervision of the Senior Medical Officer and receives daily vitals checks and necessary medical care,” the jail report states.
Addressing concerns about Kejriwal’s blood sugar levels, the report clarified that his blood sugar is monitored as per medical board advice, and he receives appropriate treatment and diet. The jail administration maintains that Kejriwal’s vitals are currently within normal limits.
Rejecting AAP’s allegations as “baseless,” jail authorities accused AAP ministers and lawmakers of spreading false information to mislead the public and exert undue pressure on the prison administration.
In contrast, Sanjay Singh reiterated that the jail report confirms Kejriwal’s weight loss and fluctuating blood sugar levels, warning of potential health risks like coma or brain stroke. He accused the BJP and its central government of conspiring to endanger Kejriwal’s health by keeping him incarcerated.
The BJP’s Delhi unit dismissed these claims as a “drama” by AAP leaders aimed at securing Kejriwal’s bail by misleading the court.
The ongoing dispute highlights the tension between the AAP and the prison administration over Kejriwal’s health and safety, as well as the broader political implications.
