BJP capitalised on excise controversy to undermine AAP’s anti-corruption image

The excise policy controversy marked the first major crack in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s reputation, allowing the BJP to argue that a party born from the Anna Hazare anti-corruption movement had strayed from its founding principles. Long before issues like the “Sheesh Mahal” renovation came under attack, the BJP highlighted the 2021-22 excise policy and the heavy liquor discounts it introduced as evidence of corruption.

Street protests, slogans, and public campaigns targeting “ek ke sath ek free” offers helped the BJP build a narrative questioning AAP’s integrity. Then Delhi BJP president Adesh Gupta mobilised support among slum residents, auto drivers, and senior citizens, calling for the dismissal of Deputy CM Manish Sisodia over alleged financial improprieties benefiting liquor traders.

As investigations unfolded and arrests of Kejriwal and Sisodia followed, BJP framed the court’s repeated denial of bail as proof of guilt rather than political targeting. While the excise controversy dented AAP’s credibility, the “Sheesh Mahal” scandal, poor infrastructure, and bureaucratic conflicts ultimately amplified the party’s decline in Delhi.With TOI inputs