In a fiery address to the Delhi Assembly, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal denounced the BJP's approach, labeling it as a "model of vinash" (destruction) compared to the AAP's focus on "vikas" (development).
Kejriwal's remarks came during the discussion on the AAP government's budget for 2024-25, which he hailed as transformative for Delhi. Kejriwal emphasized the positive reception of the budget, noting widespread acclaim that suggests a potential landslide victory for the AAP-Congress alliance in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The budget's flagship initiative, the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojna, drew particular praise from Kejriwal for its commitment to empowering women with a direct financial benefit of Rs 1,000 per woman in every family.
In a poignant moment, Kejriwal expressed solidarity with former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, currently incarcerated in a case related to excise policy. He expressed hope for Sisodia's return to present next year's budget, highlighting the unity and resilience of the AAP leadership.
Acknowledging Finance Minister Atishi's role in crafting the budget, Kejriwal commended her for presenting a comprehensive plan that addresses the needs of all sections of society. The budget, in his view, reflects the AAP's commitment to inclusive governance and social justice.
However, Kejriwal did not shy away from criticizing the BJP's governance at the national level. He accused the BJP of resorting to tactics of intimidation and coercion, using agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to target opposition parties.
Kejriwal condemned the BJP's alleged strategy of engineering defections and destabilizing elected governments, citing instances where opposition MLAs were allegedly poached.
In a defiant stance, Kejriwal asserted that the BJP's agenda includes sidelining the AAP and undermining its efforts for the people of Delhi. He claimed that there were orchestrated attempts to silence dissent and discredit the AAP leadership, including plans to incarcerate him.
Kejriwal's impassioned speech underscored the ideological battle between the AAP's vision of progress and the BJP's perceived agenda of destruction. As Delhi gears up for crucial political battles ahead, Kejriwal's words serve as a rallying cry for supporters of his party's ethos of inclusive governance and social welfare.