Arvind Kejriwal : The phenomenon of hero worship in Indian politics

Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation as Delhi’s chief minister can be viewed from two perspectives. One interpretation focuses on immediate political strategy. It appears Kejriwal has effectively neutralized the BJP’s strong criticism of him being on bail. By stepping down, he has gained time to reinvigorate the AAP’s efforts for the upcoming state elections. In this context, his resignation can be seen as a tactical move to distribute responsibilities more efficiently.

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Kejriwal’s Image Reinvention : Resignation as a Political Strategy

There is another interpretation of this development. One could argue that Kejriwal’s resignation offers him an opportunity to reshape his political image — a central aspect of his approach since the early 2010s. It is widely recognized that Kejriwal has consistently drawn on two interconnected themes: moral superiority and systemic victimization, dating back to his involvement in the India Against Corruption movement. During that period, he worked hard to position himself as the most dedicated and morally upright figure in the movement.

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Kejriwal’s Resignation: Countering BJP’s Strategy and Reasserting Moral Authority

The BJP, AAP’s main opponent, especially in Delhi, has always been uncomfortable with Kejriwal’s popular representation as a vocal idealist victim. The party wanted to demonise him in such a way that he could not utilise his image of an aam aadmi in clear political terms. The Delhi liquor case is an example of this. Kejriwal is aware of the fact that the BJP’s active propaganda will create technical as well as political problems for him. In his typical theatrical style, he resigned to reassert his moral authority. It is likely that Kejriwal might project himself as a victim of authoritarianism in the coming election.

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