Kejriwal accuses Election Chief of bowing to BJP, warns of scrapping welfare schemes if BJP wins

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal has strongly criticized the role of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar in the lead-up to the Delhi Assembly elections. Speaking on the final day of campaigning for the elections, Kejriwal accused Kumar of compromising the Election Commission’s independence by aligning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Kejriwal raised concerns about the potential influence of the BJP on the Election Commission, alleging that Kumar might have been promised a post-retirement position, such as that of a Governor or President. The AAP leader urged the CEC to focus on his duties and act in accordance with the law, calling for the safeguarding of democratic processes.

The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with votes being cast across 70 constituencies. Results will be announced on February 8. Kejriwal’s comments reflect ongoing tensions in the run-up to the polls. The AAP chief also alleged that the Election Commission had not acted decisively on several complaints raised by his party, particularly regarding the distribution of cash and inducements by the BJP in the New Delhi constituency. Kejriwal stated that these actions undermined the credibility of the Election Commission and questioned its ability to conduct free and fair elections.

In addition to criticizing the Election Commission, Kejriwal highlighted ongoing concerns over law and order in Delhi. He accused the BJP of fostering an atmosphere of violence and lawlessness, particularly targeting AAP workers. The AAP leader claimed that the Delhi Police, under BJP control, had failed to act on reports of violence by BJP supporters, leaving AAP workers vulnerable to attacks. Kejriwal cited incidents of violence and intimidation, including attacks on journalists and AAP workers, to demonstrate what he described as a growing sense of fear and insecurity in the capital.

Kejriwal also warned that if the BJP were to win the election, it would roll back several key welfare programs introduced by the AAP government. He claimed that the BJP had signaled its intent to discontinue free electricity, free water, government-run schools, mohalla clinics, and free bus rides for women. According to Kejriwal, the loss of these services would result in a significant financial burden for Delhi residents, with an estimated cost of Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 per month for an average family. He argued that these programs were critical to the economic well-being of the city’s residents, especially the underprivileged sections of society.

The AAP’s criticism of the BJP also extended to the police’s role in maintaining law and order during the election period. Kejriwal claimed that AAP supporters were forcibly removed from public spaces where they were organizing support for the party. He suggested that these actions were driven by the BJP’s fear of losing the election. Meanwhile, the BJP has dismissed Kejriwal’s claims, accusing him of using inflammatory language and suggesting that the AAP leader’s remarks were a sign of his party’s desperation as the election neared.

As the Delhi Assembly election draws closer, the contest remains intense. AAP is seeking a third consecutive term, while the BJP aims to reclaim control of the capital, which it has not governed for over 25 years. Both parties are campaigning vigorously, making promises to their supporters as the city prepares to vote.