Arvind Kejriwal is known as a relentless crusader against corruption and is admired for his innovative policies and unorthodox approach. Renowned for his simple lifestyle and steadfast commitment to public service, Kejriwal’s journey from a civil servant to the Chief Minister of Delhi is inspiring and compelling. Let’s delve into Arvind Kejriwal’s financial disclosures, examining his assets, investments, and net worth to gain insight into the economic profile of Delhi’s Chief Minister.
Arvind Kejriwal Bio:
| Name: | Arvind Kejriwal |
| Place of Birth: | Hisar, Haryana, India, |
| DOB: | August 16, 1968 (Age: 55 years) |
| Spouse: | Sunita Kejriwal (m. 1994) |
| Political Party: | Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) |
| Total Assets worth: | ₹3.44 crore (as of 2020) |
Arvind Kejriwal’s Early Life and Education
Arvind Kejriwal, born on August 16, 1968, in Hisar, Haryana, emerged from modest beginnings to become a pivotal figure in Indian politics. His father, Gobind Ram Kejriwal, was an electrical engineer, and Arvind’s early education took place at Campus School in Hisar.
He demonstrated academic excellence from a young age and went on to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur. During his early years, Kejriwal developed a keen interest in social issues and service, which later shaped his career and political philosophy.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Career Beginnings
Kejriwal started his career with Tata Steel in 1989 but soon realised his calling was elsewhere. In 1992, he joined the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) as an Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax. He became deeply involved in social work during his tenure, notably with the Missionaries of Charity and Ramakrishna Mission. His work with marginalised communities and a strong sense of justice fueled his desire to combat corruption and bring systemic change.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Activism and Anti-Corruption Movement
Kejriwal’s activism gained momentum with his involvement in the Right to Information (RTI) movement in the early 2000s. Alongside activist Aruna Roy, he played a pivotal role in promoting transparency in governance. In 2006, he was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Emergent Leadership, recognising his efforts to empower citizens to fight corruption using the RTI Act.
The most significant chapter of his activism unfolded with the India Against Corruption (IAC) movement in 2011, where he collaborated with Anna Hazare. This movement enjoyed widespread public support and demanded the enactment of the Jan Lokpal Bill, aimed at establishing an independent anti-corruption body.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Political Career
Capitalising on the momentum of the anti-corruption movement, Kejriwal founded the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in November 2012 with a mission to represent ordinary citizens and fight corruption. Kejriwal contested the Delhi Legislative Assembly elections in 2013 and emerged victorious, defeating three-time Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit. His party formed the government with support from the Indian National Congress but resigned after 49 days over the failure to pass the Jan Lokpal Bill.
In 2015, AAP made a stunning comeback, winning 67 out of 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly elections. Kejriwal was re-elected as Chief Minister, a position he has held since then, focusing on issues such as education, healthcare, and public services.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Net Worth and Income
While Arvind Kejriwal’s actual net worth is not known, his personal assets have often garnered interest, particularly given his political ethos on transparency and modesty. According to his 2020 election affidavit, his total assets amount to approximately ₹3.44 crore. He also has no liabilities declared in the affidavit. As Chief Minister, he receives a monthly income of ₹1.7 lakh, not counting the constituency, sumptuary, and daily allowances. He also gets reimbursed for family travel for up to ₹1 lakh and free medical treatment.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Movable Assets
Kejriwal’s movable assets include bank deposits, mutual funds, and a vehicle. Per the latest declarations, he holds bank deposits worth around ₹2.26 crore. He has not made any investments apart from SBI mutual funds which are valued at approximately ₹15.31 lakh. His vehicle, the iconic blue Maruti WagonR, symbolises his simple lifestyle and commitment to living like the common man.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Immovable Assets
The immovable assets declared by Kejriwal include a flat in Indirapuram, Ghaziabad, jointly owned with his wife, valued at ₹1.40 crore. Furthermore, he owns ancestral property in Shivani, Haryana, valued at ₹37 lakh.
Conclusion
Arvind Kejriwal’s life and career are testaments to the impact of integrity and perseverance in public service. From his humble beginnings to his rise as a prominent political figure, His modest personal assets, such as his simple lifestyle and prudent financial choices, reflect his commitment to living in a manner that resonates with the common man.
