AAP popularity rattling BJP in Varanasi, claims Kejriwal

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader chief Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in a violent and rattled state because of his party's decision to field him from Varanasi against Narendra Modi.

"In the last week, in Varanasi, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has gained in terms of popularity. This has rattled the BJP, that's why goons from the BJP started assaulting us. Initially, they started attacking me with stones, eggs and throwing ink, although, that doesn't bother me. But now, they have resorted to attacking general public. People who were wearing AAP caps yesterday were attacked in Assi Ghat in the temple town while they were talking to the people, Some people who were wearing our party caps were in front of the U.P college and their caps were snatched. Some auto-rickhaws drivers have said AAP posters have been torn, and those carrying them, have been threatened by BJP goons. Even those who are distributing pamphelts are being snatched and torn . So, a fear psychosis is being created by BJP supporters," Kejriwal said at his press conference here.

Kejriwal said these attacks made him wonder if such incidents could see a spurt if the BJP wins.

"We may have political differences, but that doesnt mean we will start attacking others. These acts have agitated the people, and they want to teach the BJP a lesson. If Modi's people start attacking like this even before the election results, then god forbid what will happen if they win, which looks dreadful," Kejriwal added.

Kejriwal remarked that these attacks will not intimidate the AAP. He asked the Election Commission to step in and send central forces to stop such acts of violence.

"We are not among those who will get afraid. We have asked the Election Commission to declare a couple of booths as sensitive and to depute central forces," Kejriwal added.

Last night, reports say two AAP volunteers, Nandan Mishra and Ankit Lal, had an argument with some people who wore BJP badges at the Assi Ghat in Varanasi, which later turned into a brawl.

The victims claimed the attackers had allegedly criticised Kejriwal and when they objected, the alleged BJP attackers assaulted them.