The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, has unveiled its 7-point manifesto for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections, focusing on policies designed to support the middle class. Released during a news conference on Wednesday, the manifesto highlights reforms in education, healthcare, taxation, and senior citizen welfare.
Kejriwal’s 7 Demands to the Centre
During the event, Kejriwal also directed seven demands to the central government for inclusion in the Union Budget:
- Education Budget: Increase allocation from 2% to 10% and cap private school fees.
- Higher Education Support: Introduce subsidies and scholarships for students.
- Healthcare Funding: Boost the health budget to 10% and remove taxes on health insurance.
- Income Tax Exemption: Raise the exemption limit to ₹10 lakh from the current ₹7 lakh.
- GST Reform: Eliminate GST on essential commodities.
- Senior Citizen Benefits: Implement robust retirement plans, provide free medical services in government and private hospitals, and offer a 50% concession on rail travel.
- Pension Schemes: Strengthen pension plans for senior citizens.
Kejriwal emphasized AAP’s commitment to utilizing tax revenues for the benefit of citizens. “We reduced power tariffs, slashed water bills, and improved government hospital infrastructure,” he said.
BJP Accused of “Hooliganism”
At the same press conference, AAP leaders accused the BJP of resorting to violence against its workers in Kalkaji constituency. Atishi, a senior AAP leader, alleged that BJP workers, claiming to be relatives of BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri, were threatening AAP workers, burning campaign materials, and creating an atmosphere of fear.
“Ever since Ramesh Bidhuri started contesting from Kalkaji, BJP has created an atmosphere of terror,” Atishi stated. Kejriwal supported her claims, accusing BJP of resorting to violence due to fear of losing the election. “BJP is heading towards a historic defeat in Delhi,” he said.
A High-Stakes Election
The Delhi assembly election, scheduled for February 5, pits AAP, BJP, and Congress against each other. AAP, which won a landslide victory in 2020 by securing 62 out of 70 seats, remains a strong contender. The BJP, which managed to secure eight seats in 2020, is looking to improve its standing, while Congress, once a dominant force in Delhi politics, is struggling to regain its lost ground after two consecutive defeats.
AAP’s Vision for Delhi
AAP’s manifesto underscores its commitment to the middle class, promising targeted reforms in areas like education and healthcare, alongside financial relief measures. With polling day approaching, the AAP continues to focus on strengthening its connection with voters, while criticizing the BJP’s strategies and governance.
The results of the Delhi assembly election will be announced on February 8, 2025, marking a crucial moment in the capital’s political landscape.
