New Delhi [India], January 21: Ahead of the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal sharply criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) manifesto, calling it “dangerous” for the national capital and the country.
During a press conference, Kejriwal expressed concern over the BJP’s promises, saying, “BJP has released two Sankalp Patras so far, and both are harmful for Delhi and the nation. We have consistently worked to make education free and accessible, but if they come to power, they will halt free education and electricity. Just four days ago, in their first Sankalp Patra, they announced plans to shut down Mohalla Clinics.”
Kejriwal, who served as the Delhi Chief Minister, added that the BJP’s proposals would negatively affect government education. “In today’s Sankalp Patra, they are promising to stop education in government schools. They have stated that only needy students will receive free education. I urge the people of Delhi to understand the threat this party poses. If you vote for them, the cost of living in Delhi will rise dramatically, making it unaffordable for many.”
The AAP leader emphasized his party’s efforts, saying that under their government, education in Delhi has been made free, with 18 lakh underprivileged children benefiting from quality schooling. “We have ensured free education for Delhi’s children, but the BJP intends to stop it, along with free medical treatment and electricity,” he said.
On Tuesday, the BJP unveiled the second part of its manifesto, which includes promises like free education for students in government institutions, a welfare board for auto-rickshaw drivers and domestic workers, as well as life insurance for them. Additionally, the BJP has proposed forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe alleged corruption during the AAP’s tenure.
The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with vote counting taking place on February 8. A total of 699 candidates are contesting the 70 seats in the assembly, with AAP winning a decisive victory in the 2015 and 2020 elections.