Arvind Kejriwal Backs 15-Year-Old Noida Teen Over Remarks Against PM Modi
Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday shared a fresh video of a 15-year-old teenager from Noida, alleging that the minor had been subjected to prolonged harassment following controversy over her remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Sharing the video where the teenager addressed the ongoing controversy, Kejriwal stated that the minor had displayed significant bravery and called on members of the public to offer her support. The AAP chief accused authorities of targeting and torturing a minor.
In the newly shared clip, the teenager adopted a defiant tone, contrasting sharply with an earlier video in which she had issued a public apology. In the previous recording, the 15-year-old had said that it was her first and last mistake, stating she would not repeat such actions and offering an apology to the whole country.
In her latest statement, the teenager expressed that she was no longer intimidated, stating directly that she had faced extensive harassment and now had nothing left to lose.
Kejriwal criticised the handling of the teenager by authorities, questioning the focus placed on pursuing a 15-year-old girl and commending her resilience amid the situation.
The development comes amid an escalating political dispute involving opposition parties and the Bharatiya Janata Party over the treatment of the teenager, linked to the Cockroach Janta Party protest and subsequent remarks concerning the prime minister.
Delhi Leader of Opposition Atishi also criticised the BJP administration regarding the matter, questioning police priorities. Atishi argued that law enforcement appeared to act rapidly against individuals who make critical remarks about the prime minister while serious crimes against women continue to occur.
Atishi pointed to the police and administrative machinery across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, asserting that ruling authorities hold responsibility across both states and central ministries. She questioned why strict action and deterrence were lacking when it came to addressing sexual violence and ensuring women's safety.
