By The Sampadak Express
With the Delhi Assembly elections just days away, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal launched a blistering attack on the Congress party, accusing it of “collaborating” with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to ensure the defeat of AAP in the upcoming polls. Kejriwal’s remarks came during a video address on Thursday, where he accused Congress of intentionally undermining AAP’s chances in the Delhi elections.”
Congress is not contesting elections in Delhi to win, but they are collaborating with the BJP so that AAP loses,” Kejriwal asserted in his address, which was aimed at galvanizing AAP supporters and appealing to Congress voters to switch allegiance ahead of the polls.
Congress’ Role in Haryana Elections and Internal Conflicts
Kejriwal also referred to his recent interactions with Congress supporters, pointing out how internal conflicts within the party had led to poor electoral outcomes in the past. He specifically mentioned the Congress’ performance in the Haryana elections, where the party, despite having a strong chance of winning, suffered defeat. He attributed this loss to the ongoing infighting within Congress ranks, which he claimed had demoralized the party’s supporters.”
A few days ago, some long-time Congress supporters met me. Even though they planned to vote for Congress, they expressed frustration with their party’s internal strife. They confided in me that Congress’ failure in Haryana was because of internal conflicts,” Kejriwal said, emphasizing the growing disenchantment with Congress among its grassroots supporters.
Kejriwal’s Appeal to Congress Supporters
Continuing his criticism, Kejriwal made a direct appeal to Congress supporters, urging them to vote for AAP instead of their traditional party. He argued that Congress leaders have largely refrained from criticizing the BJP and instead focused their attacks on AAP. In contrast, he highlighted the welfare schemes his government had introduced in Delhi, such as free electricity, enhanced government schools, and mohalla clinics, all of which could be in jeopardy if BJP takes control of Delhi.”
If Congress wins, the BJP will form the government,” Kejriwal warned. “If BJP comes to power, all the benefits we have provided — free electricity, improved schools, mohalla clinics, free bus services for women — will be discontinued. I urge every Congress supporter to think carefully before voting. If you vote for Congress, the BJP will benefit and these services will be at risk.”
Controversy Over Yamuna Water Issue
Kejriwal’s remarks came amid a brewing controversy surrounding his claims about the Yamuna River’s pollution. The AAP leader had recently accused the BJP-led Haryana government of “poisoning” the water flowing into Delhi from Haryana, a comment that was flagged by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Kejriwal had argued that his statements were made in the public interest and not as an electoral tactic.
The Election Commission rejected Kejriwal’s explanation and issued a notice to him over his claims. Kejriwal, however, lashed out at the ECI, accusing it of politicizing the issue and alleging that Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar was seeking post-retirement employment. Kejriwal asserted that his comments were meant to highlight the public health concerns surrounding the Yamuna’s contamination and should not be viewed as a violation of electoral conduct.
In his response to the ECI, Kejriwal further defended his remarks, stating that the issues he raised regarding water quality were in line with his duties as a public servant and should not be construed as a violation. He warned that ignoring such concerns could set a dangerous precedent that would undermine accountability in government.
Delhi Elections and Congress’ Struggles
As the February 5 Delhi Assembly election date draws near, the political landscape in Delhi appears to be heavily dominated by AAP, which has seen major success in recent elections. In the 2015 and 2020 elections, AAP secured overwhelming victories, winning 67 and 62 out of 70 seats respectively. On the other hand, the BJP managed to secure only three and eight seats in these elections.
Congress, which ruled Delhi for 15 consecutive years until 2013, has struggled in recent elections and failed to secure any seats in the 2015 and 2020 Delhi Assembly elections. Despite this, Congress continues to field candidates in the current election, but its support base in the capital has significantly eroded, with many supporters expressing discontent over the party’s lack of direction and internal issues.
The AAP’s dominant position in Delhi, coupled with Kejriwal’s continued efforts to court Congress supporters, indicates a fierce political battle ahead, with Congress’ role in the race being questioned by Kejriwal and others within the AAP camp.
The Road Ahead for Delhi Politics
With less than a week remaining until the election, the political atmosphere in Delhi is charged. The AAP’s massive campaign, combined with Kejriwal’s recent appeal to Congress voters, is an attempt to consolidate support ahead of the polls. As the election approaches, the Congress party’s strategy and the influence of internal divisions within the party will likely play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
The results of the election will be announced on February 8, and all eyes will be on whether AAP can maintain its dominance in the capital, or if Congress and BJP will manage to make significant inroads into its stronghold.
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