With the 2025 Delhi assembly elections approaching, Lieutenant Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena has directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to implement immediate checks on private vehicles entering Delhi from Punjab.
The directive comes after Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit alleged that crores of rupees were being transported from Punjab to influence voters in the upcoming elections. Dikshit claimed that private vehicles, often escorted by Punjab Police personnel, were being used to transfer the cash.
Allegations and LG’s Directive
In his letter, the LG expressed concern that the alleged transfer of money could undermine free and fair elections.
“The possibility of using such illegal money in the ensuing election to influence the voters of Delhi cannot be ruled out,” the letter read. The LG also emphasized that using money power in elections violates the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Representation of the People Act, 1951, posing a significant threat to democratic integrity.
The LG directed the Chief Secretary to inform the Chief Electoral Office of the allegations and advised law enforcement to monitor vehicle movement rigorously.
Broader Concerns Over Privacy Breach
In a separate issue, LG Saxena ordered an investigation into allegations that personal data of Delhi residents is being collected unlawfully under the guise of registering for the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) welfare scheme, Mahila Samman Yojana.
According to the allegations, AAP workers were collecting sensitive personal information in the name of enrolling residents for a scheme promising Rs 2,100 to women. The LG stated that such practices, if true, breach citizens’ privacy and erode trust in governance.
Sandeep Dikshit’s Accusations Against AAP
Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, who is contesting the New Delhi assembly constituency against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, has been vocal about alleged irregularities in AAP’s welfare promises.
Dikshit labeled AAP’s schemes as fraudulent, questioning their transparency and purpose. He raised concerns about the misuse of personal data gathered during registration processes and warned residents of potential misconduct.
Election Landscape
The allegations come at a politically charged time, as assembly elections in Delhi are expected in early 2025. In the last election, AAP won a sweeping majority with 62 out of 70 seats, leaving the BJP with eight. Congress failed to secure a single seat.
The ongoing disputes over election practices and alleged financial misconduct set the stage for a contentious electoral battle between AAP, BJP, and Congress in the national capital.