Arvind Kejriwal, the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party, made a powerful statement against the Bharatiya Janata Party during a recent event titled “Janta Ki Adalat” held at Chhatrasal Stadium in Delhi.
His comments were particularly focused on the ongoing issues concerning bus marshals, law and order in the capital, and the BJP's performance in upcoming assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir. Kejriwal emphasised his commitment to transforming Delhi into a full state, free from the influence of the Lieutenant Governor.
During his speech, Kejriwal firmly stated his intention to make Delhi a full state. He declared, “Today, I am going with an oath that in this life, I will make Delhi a full state; I will make Delhi free from LG.”
This declaration was a clear message to both his supporters and political opponents about his dedication to local governance and autonomy for the people of Delhi.
The AAP leader also highlighted his observations from recent exit polls, suggesting that the BJP is losing ground in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the party is facing significant declines in public support and will likely experience similar defeats in the forthcoming elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.
Kejriwal criticised the BJP’s so-called “double-engine government,” claiming that it leads to increased corruption, inflation, and unemployment. He noted that the public is becoming increasingly aware of the failures associated with this governance model.
In his remarks, he reflected on the recent exit poll projections, saying that the BJP is struggling in states where it has held power. He elaborated on this point, explaining that the concept of a double-engine government equates to failure and mismanagement.
“I was watching TV yesterday evening; exit polls were coming. The BJP is losing double-engine governments from Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir,” he pointed out, drawing attention to the growing discontent among voters.
Kejriwal continued to lambaste the BJP, urging the public to question the effectiveness of their governance. He recounted how residents in Haryana have reportedly rebuked BJP leaders, making it clear that they are not satisfied with the party’s performance. “What did they (BJP) do that they are rebuking and chasing them away?” he asked, highlighting the growing frustration among citizens.
The AAP leader also turned his focus to the law and order situation in Delhi, drawing comparisons to the crime rates in Mumbai during the 1990s. He described the current atmosphere in Delhi as one of fear and instability, stating that the situation is deteriorating.
“Just like the underworld ruled Mumbai in the 90s, the same is the situation in Delhi today,” he said, emphasising the urgent need for improvements in public safety.
One of the central issues in his address was the removal of bus marshals, which Kejriwal argued compromises public safety and the effectiveness of public transportation. He recounted personal experiences, recalling how crucial bus marshals have been in preventing crimes, particularly in protecting women.
He stated, “I have lived in slums, and I have seen how much trouble a woman faces if she doesn’t get a seat on the bus.” His comments underscored the importance of bus marshals in enhancing security and maintaining order on public transportation.
Kejriwal also challenged the BJP to adopt reforms similar to those introduced by the AAP government, particularly in providing free electricity. He urged Prime Minister Modi to replicate the successful policies implemented in Delhi across other BJP-ruled states.
He remarked, “Today I want to say to Modiji that on September 17 next year, you will retire at the age of 75. Do one thing in these 22 states in one year, which we have done in Delhi.”
Furthermore, he pointed out the inadequacies of the BJP in handling the pressing issues facing Delhi, particularly in terms of law enforcement. He accused the BJP of obstructing the AAP’s efforts to improve public safety, stating, “You are not able to protect the people of Delhi; when we are doing it, you are not letting us do it.” His remarks resonate with the sentiment that accountability and effective governance are paramount in restoring public trust.
The recent developments surrounding the bus marshals highlight the ongoing political tussle between AAP and BJP. The AAP alleges that the BJP has failed to uphold its commitment to regularise the bus marshals after a resolution was passed in the assembly.
Last month, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi had written to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, requesting the reinstatement of bus marshals, which indicates the ongoing efforts by AAP to address the concerns of these workers.
The tensions between the AAP and BJP are expected to escalate as the Delhi elections approach. The issues of public safety, governance, and local autonomy will likely be central themes in the political discourse. Kejriwal’s assertions during the “Janta Ki Adalat” serve to mobilise his supporters and articulate a vision for a more autonomous and empowered Delhi.
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