New Delhi [India], January 3: Ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a subtle jibe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, saying, “Mai bhi koi sheeshmahal bana sakta tha,” (I could have also built a palace for myself), during a public meeting at Ashok Vihar’s Ramlila Ground.
PM Modi’s remarks were aimed at the former Delhi CM, accusing him of constructing an extravagant residence while he himself refrained from building a home. “The country knows well that Modi never built a home for himself, but has built over 4 crore houses for the poor,” the Prime Minister stated, urging the public to assure slum dwellers that they will be provided permanent houses in the future.
He emphasized the importance of urban development in achieving the vision of a “developed India,” noting that the BJP-led government has launched initiatives to replace slums with permanent homes. “Our cities play a crucial role in developing India, and the BJP government is committed to providing a quality life to every family,” he said.
PM Modi also shared his vision for India in 2025, describing the year as one that would solidify India’s position as a global leader and boost its manufacturing sector. “India has become a symbol of political and economic stability. In 2025, India will strengthen its role globally and emerge as one of the largest manufacturing hubs in the world,” he added.
Reflecting on his earlier days, PM Modi became emotional, recalling the time when Ashok Vihar served as a sanctuary for those opposing Indira Gandhi’s dictatorship, and it was a place he called home during the underground movement.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated 1,675 newly constructed flats for slum dwellers under the In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project at Swabhiman Apartments in Ashok Vihar. In a post on X, he reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring housing for every Indian, highlighting the importance of providing homes that foster dreams.
In addition, PM Modi also virtually launched multiple urban development projects, including the World Trade Centre at Nauroji Nagar, GPRA Type-II Quarters at Sarojini Nagar, and CBSE’s Integrated Office Complex in Dwarka, and laid the foundation stone for Veer Savarkar College at Roshanpura, Najafgarh.