New Delhi: With the upcoming elections in Delhi, the issue of Yamuna river pollution has taken center stage in the political discourse. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has openly challenged Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his unfulfilled promises of cleaning the Yamuna river.
Rahul Gandhi Slams Kejriwal’s ‘Hollow’ Promises
In a recently released video, Rahul Gandhi criticized Kejriwal for making what he called “empty promises” regarding the cleaning of the Yamuna. Gandhi reminded the public of Kejriwal’s past assurances, including his statement, “I will take a dip in the Yamuna, or else don’t vote for me.”
Gandhi accused both the Modi-led central government and the AAP-led Delhi government of negligence and corruption, blaming them for the deteriorating condition of the river. “This horrific condition of Yamuna is the result of the confluence of negligence and corruption of both the Modi and Kejriwal governments,” he asserted.
A Decade of Promises, No Results
Rahul Gandhi also criticized Kejriwal’s recent press conference, where the AAP supremo blamed Haryana for releasing highly toxic water into the Yamuna. Kejriwal alleged that Haryana has been releasing water with extremely dangerous ammonia levels for several days, making it unfit for consumption. He claimed that when Delhi CM Atishi reached out to the Haryana government to stop the release of toxic water, there was no response or action taken.
However, Rahul Gandhi dismissed these allegations as an attempt to shift the blame, stating that the failure to clean the Yamuna was a direct result of mismanagement by both the Delhi and central governments. He further accused Kejriwal of using the issue to generate funds rather than finding real solutions.
Gandhi’s Visit to Yamuna Highlights Alarming Pollution Levels
Sharing his experience from a recent visit to the Yamuna banks, Gandhi posted a video on his YouTube channel, highlighting the extreme pollution levels in the river. He expressed deep concern over the deteriorating water quality and the impact on Delhi residents.
“If you are a Delhi resident like me, then you must be saddened by the plight of Yamuna ji. Yesterday morning, I visited the riverbanks and spoke with local residents, boatmen, and activists who are deeply concerned about the condition of Yamuna,” Gandhi stated in his post.
According to Gandhi, the once-pristine river is now filled with garbage, sewage, and unbearable stench. He pointed out that, as per environmental researchers, clean water from the river is being extracted for sewage treatment while untreated sewage is dumped back into the river.
Spiritual Significance Lost in Pollution
Gandhi also highlighted the cultural and religious significance of the Yamuna, stating that in the past, devotees would gather in large numbers to take a holy dip in the river. However, due to excessive pollution and health risks, very few now dare to enter its waters.
Political Repercussions and Public Reaction
The Congress leader’s remarks have sparked heated debates, with many questioning whether Kejriwal will respond to the challenge by taking a dip in the Yamuna. While AAP has consistently blamed Haryana for polluting the river, critics argue that Delhi’s own waste management system and lack of effective policies are major contributing factors.
As Delhi residents continue to suffer due to worsening water pollution, the Yamuna crisis is expected to be a key issue in the upcoming elections. Whether Kejriwal will take up Rahul Gandhi’s challenge or continue to shift the blame remains to be seen. Meanwhile, Delhiites are left waiting for real action to revive their dying river.
