An Indian opposition leader has reportedly been arrested on suspicion of involvement in corruption, ahead of the country's general election.

Indian media outlets reported the arrest of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday. Kejriwal leads the opposition Aam Aadmi Party, or common people's party.

Several senior members of the AAP have been arrested on charges of receiving bribes from businesses in return for efforts to privatize liquor sales, which had been controlled by the government.

Kejriwal has long been a fierce critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of the central government. He is a key leader in the opposition coalition against Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in the general election, which starts in April.

Investigative authorities have yet to disclose any charges against Kejriwal, or even acknowledge his arrest. But the AAP says it has confirmed he was arrested.

The opposition bloc is denouncing the move, saying it is politically motivated.

The latest opinion polls indicate the ruling BJP will maintain its majority in the election.

Observers say Kejriwal's arrest will deal a heavy blow to the opposition camp.