Set to be sworn in as RS MP, Swati Maliwal says ‘not scared to question govt or go to jail for it’

Swati Maliwal, the newest AAP Rajya Sabha MP, discusses her excitement, responsibilities, and priorities as she enters active politics.

New Delhi

As Swati Maliwal becomes the latest AAP Rajya Sabha MP amid Opposition leaders’ allegations of a “witch hunt” against them, the former DCW chief said her family is scared about her foray into active politics, but she asserted that she is not scared to question the Government or go to the jail for it.

In an interview with PTI at her residence, Ms. Maliwal, who is set to take oath as MP on January 31 , said the moment when formally assumes office will be the "most profound" and "important" occasion of her life.

"I am very excited. As a first-time MP, I have a huge responsibility. I feel that I have always been an activist, and will continue to remain one. I will raise grassroots issues and I am looking forward to it," she told PTI, a day before she is to take oath.

Ms. Maliwal said she is proud of what she has accomplished so far – from her beginnings as the youngest core committee member of the ‘India Against Corruption’ movement – to becoming the chief of the Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) and now a Rajya Sabha MP.

"My journey makes me feel that there is a God and I have always been protected. I had never thought that I would reach the Rajya Sabha. It was not my aim or ambition,” she said. "I feel that it will be the most profound and important moment of my life. After that every waking moment of my life will be dedicated to the service of this nation," she stressed.

Ms. Maliwal said since she has been an activist, she will continue to raise the issue of women’s safety and their participation in the workforce as an MP.