Why Educated People Still Support Kejriwal

The support of well-educated individuals for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is often misunderstood, presenting a stark contrast to the general belief that educated individuals tend to scrutinize political promises more critically. This article explores why educated people still back Kejriwal despite widespread skepticism about the authenticity of his promises.

Common Allegations Against Kejriwal

There is a prevailing notion that well-educated individuals reject Kejriwal due to the apparent contradictions in his political promises and personal conduct. Critics argue that Kejriwal's statements against the Prime Minister and the Lieutenant Governor are often false, and his promises frequently amount to lies. However, this perspective does not fully capture the complexity of the situation.

Addressing the Allegations

While it's true that Kejriwal has made some controversial statements, it's essential to recognize that many educated people do not see him as an incorrigible politician. Instead, they view his actions and statements within the context of broader social and political dynamics. For instance, educated individuals might support Kejriwal because he stands for the immediate well-being of the less privileged, whom traditional parties often neglect.

Perceived Merits of Kejriwal's Leadership

One compelling reason why educated people support Kejriwal is the image of him as a leader whose primary focus is on the welfare of the masses, seeing himself as a champion of the aam aadmi (common man). He appeals to the educated class by advocating for transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption, which resonate deeply with their values.

Threshold of Expectation

Many educated people believe that Kejriwal's initiatives, though not always perfect, offer hope in a system where other political leaders often fail to meet expectations. For instance, his involvement in the anti-corruption movement, such as the Anna Hazare movement, reflects a genuine desire to effect change. This sense of validation and hope can be significant, especially among the educated, who are often critical of the status quo.

Declining Support

However, it's important to note that support for Kejriwal among educated individuals is not uniform. With the departure of several key supporters, such as Anna Hazare, Yogendra Yadav, and Prashant Bhushan, the trust in Kejriwal's leadership has waned. These individuals played pivotal roles in mobilizing public support and instigating broader changes, and their exits have created a gap in Kejriwal's leadership network.

Current Challenges and Reflective Questions

As educated people increasingly question Kejriwal's reliability, it raises important questions about the broader dynamics of political support. The irony often highlighted by opponents is that while educated individuals often critique simpler, less educated politicians for their rhetoric and actions, they themselves are criticized for the strength of their convictions and the lack of critical examination of their own leaders.

Conclusion

While it is true that many educated individuals support Kejriwal initially due to his image and perceived intentions, the longevity and depth of this support depend on the alignment of his actions with educated people's values and expectations. The decline in support over time illustrates the challenges faced by political leaders in maintaining the trust and commitment of their supporters, regardless of their educational background.