New Delhi [India]: Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Delhi government, accusing it of prioritizing liquor sales over the health and welfare of the city’s residents. He emphasized the need for the implementation of central health schemes, including Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Vaya Vandana, for the benefit of Delhi’s population.
“While the Government of India has requested the Delhi government to prioritize public health, they remain focused on selling liquor. Schemes like Ayushman Bharat can significantly benefit Delhiites if implemented,” Mandaviya stated during a press conference.
Background: High Court Notice
The Delhi High Court recently issued a notice to the Delhi government regarding its non-implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). The court’s action followed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by all seven BJP MPs from Delhi, urging the government to roll out the scheme, which provides health coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually.
AAP Government’s Response
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi responded to the criticism by outlining the state government’s commitment to free healthcare. She noted contradictions between the Ayushman Bharat scheme and Delhi’s existing healthcare policies.
- Delhi Government’s Healthcare Model: Delhi government hospitals provide free healthcare services without restrictions on financial limits or property ownership.
- Ayushman Bharat’s Restrictions: The scheme imposes certain eligibility criteria, such as disqualifying families with a refrigerator, vehicle, or concrete house, and caps financial assistance at ₹5 lakh per family annually.
Atishi added that these restrictions could leave families without sufficient coverage in cases where multiple members require treatment simultaneously. She instructed the health department to explore ways to implement Ayushman Bharat without undermining Delhi’s free healthcare model.
BJP’s Criticism
BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj accused the AAP government of “sacrificing public interests” by delaying the scheme’s rollout. She expressed gratitude to the Delhi High Court for intervening, stating, “The AAP government is keeping people away from this world-class health scheme for political reasons.”
Political Implications
The debate over Ayushman Bharat’s implementation highlights the ideological and administrative differences between the BJP-led central government and the AAP-led Delhi government. While the BJP advocates for a unified rollout of central schemes, AAP argues that its state-specific model better serves the needs of Delhi residents.
With Delhi assembly elections approaching in 2025, healthcare policies are likely to be a key battleground between the two parties.