New Delhi: In a fiery speech ahead of the Delhi assembly elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched sharp attacks on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing them of betrayal and corruption. Addressing a rally in Patparganj, Gandhi labeled Kejriwal and former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia as the “architects of Delhi’s biggest liquor scam,” urging voters to back Congress candidate Anil Chaudhary.
Kejriwal Lives in ‘Sheesh Mahal,’ Says Gandhi
Gandhi accused Kejriwal of abandoning his promise of clean politics, saying, “He came with a small car and promises of transforming Delhi but now resides in a ‘sheesh mahal’ (glass palace).” He criticized the AAP chief for being absent during key crises, including the 2020 Delhi riots, stating, “When Delhi burned, Kejriwal was nowhere to be seen. When the poor needed him, he vanished.”
The Congress leader also targeted Sisodia, alleging corruption and mismanagement, and accused him of fleeing the Patparganj constituency. Gandhi implored voters to reject AAP and vote for Congress, emphasizing the party’s commitment to transparent governance.
BJP’s Intentions to Rewrite History
Shifting his focus to the BJP, Gandhi accused the party of attempting to undermine India’s Constitution and history. Referring to a statement by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Gandhi said, “They claim true independence came when Modi became PM. This insults our Constitution and Dr. BR Ambedkar.”
Holding a copy of the Constitution during his speech, Gandhi warned against the BJP’s alleged plans to “rewrite history” and polarize the country. He added, “The BJP-RSS spreads hatred, divides people on caste and religion, and pushes an agenda that benefits billionaires while ignoring the needs of common citizens.”
‘India for Billionaires,’ Says Gandhi on BJP’s Policies
Gandhi accused the BJP of favoring billionaires like Gautam Adani, claiming, “Modi is handing the country’s resources to one billionaire while ignoring the plight of the poor.” Highlighting economic inequalities, he alleged that Dalits, tribals, and backward classes are underrepresented in decision-making and the ownership of major companies.
The Congress leader criticized the government for unemployment and environmental degradation, stating, “The youth have no jobs, Delhi’s air is unbreathable, yet the media only focuses on Ambani weddings and Modi’s face.”
Caste Census and Reservation
Gandhi reiterated his demand for a nationwide caste census, promising that the Congress would implement it wherever it comes to power. He also vowed to abolish the 50% reservation cap, ensuring greater representation for marginalized communities. “The BJP wants to exclude Dalits and tribals from policymaking. We, on the other hand, aim to empower them,” he said.
Congress’ ‘Shop of Love’ Against Hate
Referring to his “Bharat Jodo Yatra,” Gandhi said the Congress aims to counter hatred with love, declaring, “In the marketplace of hate, we’re opening a shop of love. We want an India filled with harmony, not fear.”
Gandhi’s speech ended with an appeal to voters to reject divisive politics and support Congress candidates committed to equality and justice. His comments have sparked heated debates ahead of the February 5 assembly polls.
