According to reports, the AAP has already filed a formal complaint with the election office. PTI File.

I am not a terrorist: Kejriwal hits back at Parvesh Verma

The Federal
30 Jan 2020 4:34 PM IST (Updated:2020-01-30 11:09:01)

Days after BJP leader Parvesh Verma labeled Delhi Chief Minister as ‘terrorist,’ Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday (January 30) hit out at the controversial remark, asserting that it was for the people of Delhi to decide if he was a terrorist.

While justifying his remarks, Verma claimed that he meant to call Kejriwal a naxalite.

In the controversial video clip, Verma says, “If Kejriwal comes to power again, Madipur’s streets will become Shaheen Bagh. There are many Natwarlals (cheats) like Kejriwal and aatankwadis (terrorists) like Kejriwal hiding in Delhi. We have to throw them out. I fail to understand if we should fight terrorists in Kashmir or against terrorists like Kejriwal in Delhi.”

Also read | 3-day campaign ban on Anurag Thakur, Parvesh Verma gagged for 4 days

Speaking at a media briefing, Kejriwal asked, “how have I become a terrorist? I’ve arranged for medicines… did so much for the needy. I’ve never thought of myself or my family… am ready to give my life for the nation”.

He also said that as a chief minister, he had strived for improving the quality of education, healthcare, free pilgrimage for old citizens. “Are these steps that a terrorist would take?” he asked.

Speaking emotionally, he said, “In the last five years, these people have used all their power against me. How am I a terrorist? I have worked as a son of the people of Delhi. Today, I leave the decision up to the people of Delhi if they think of me as their son, brother or a terrorist?” he said.

According to reports, the AAP has already filed a formal complaint with the election office.

“Parvesh Verma has openly called Arvind Kejriwal a terrorist. This is an allegation aimed at tarnishing the image of a democratically elected chief minister. This is a blatant violation of model code of conduct…It is requested that an FIR be registered against Verma and CEO Delhi may ban him from campaigning in Delhi assembly elections 2020,” the letter read.

Also read | EC issues notice to Anurag Thakur, Parvesh Verma for ‘provocative’ remarks