New Delhi [India]: Delhi Chief Minister Atishi Marlena on Thursday alleged that a conspiracy was hatched against AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, aiming to disrupt his governance as Chief Minister. She stated that despite his arrest, Kejriwal’s return has propelled government initiatives on a “war footing.”
Key Cabinet Decisions Post-Arvind Kejriwal’s Release
At a press conference, CM Atishi highlighted the strides made in resuming government operations after Kejriwal’s release. Among the major announcements was the restart of Delhi’s Electric Vehicle (EV) policy, which had been stalled during his incarceration.
- EV Policy Reinstated:
- EV Registration Growth: CM Atishi revealed that 12% of vehicles registered in Delhi between 2023 and 2024 were electric, twice the national average.
- Policy Extension: The policy is now extended until March 30, 2025. Subsidies and road tax exemptions on EVs, halted for 10 months, will resume for purchases made after January 1, 2024.
- Welfare Initiatives:
- CM Atishi announced a ₹17 crore grant to the Delhi SC/ST/OBC/Minority and Handicapped Finance & Development Corporation Limited (DSFDC) to address pending salaries of 125 employees since January.
- A Bachelor of Optometry program will begin at the Guru Nanak Eye Centre, with a new training wing dedicated to optometry.
Addressing Healthcare Gaps
On the implementation of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), CM Atishi expressed the Delhi government’s willingness to adopt the scheme while pointing out its limitations:
- The scheme excludes families with assets like refrigerators or concrete houses, and caps coverage at ₹5 lakh per family.
- Atishi reaffirmed the Delhi government’s commitment to free healthcare, instructing the health department to ensure Ayushman Bharat’s implementation aligns with existing benefits without disadvantaging residents.
Security Concerns and Accountability
CM Atishi criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the BJP for lapses in Delhi’s law and order, citing recent incidents like the Prashant Vihar blast near a school.
- Atishi likened Delhi’s current state to Mumbai’s underworld era of the 1990s, holding the Centre responsible for deteriorating security.
- She urged Shah to prioritize Delhi’s safety over election campaigning.
Conclusion
The announcements underscore the AAP government’s focus on restoring stalled initiatives and addressing critical issues across governance, welfare, and safety in Delhi.