Political tensions in Delhi have escalated as AAP and BJP clash over Chhath Puja arrangements for the Purvanchali community. Both parties are accusing each other of disrespecting this community and hindering festival preparations.
Key Points of Contention
The main issue revolves around the Satpula ghat in South Delhi, where AAP leaders allege that BJP representatives have obstructed festival preparations. AAP Member of Parliament Sanjay Singh criticized the BJP, claiming it has a history of opposing people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. He staged a protest in Greater Kailash, accusing a BJP corporator of attempting to demolish a Chhath ghat. Singh emphasized the AAP government’s commitment to the Purvanchali community, noting that the government has expanded the number of ghats over the past decade to support those unable to travel home for the festival. He also mentioned that party volunteers would inform Delhi residents of these efforts during Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s padyatra.
Allegations of Blockades
Delhi Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj accused the BJP-led Delhi Development Authority (DDA) of blocking access to certain ghats. Bhardwaj alleged the DDA blocked access to Satpula lake, claiming BJP turned the area into a “cantonment” for festival obstruction. Bhardwaj described these actions as a form of “dirty politics” that interfered with festival observances.
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DDA’s Clarification and BJP Response
In response, the DDA clarified that a 6,000-square-meter area had been allocated at Satpula lake specifically for Chhath Puja. BJP leader Shikha Rai countered AAP’s claims, arguing that AAP supporters had restricted BJP volunteers from cleaning the area. Rai also stated that AAP frequently occupies festival sites days in advance, imposing what she described as arbitrary rules.
Conclusion
This clash highlights political maneuvering as both parties seek to appeal to the Purvanchali community ahead of the Chhath Puja festival.
(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)
