New Delhi:In the lead-up to the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Vinai Kumar Saxena has initiated multiple investigations into the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) activities. These inquiries focus on the proposed Mahila Samman Yojana, allegations of surveillance involving Punjab intelligence officers, and purported cash transfers from Punjab to Delhi.
Investigating the Mahila Samman Yojana
The Mahila Samman Yojana, a scheme proposed by AAP to provide ₹2,100 to eligible women, has come under scrutiny. Concerns have been raised about the collection of personal data by individuals not affiliated with the government. In response, the L-G’s office has directed the Divisional Commissioner to investigate the methods employed in gathering this data. Additionally, the Commissioner of Police has been instructed to take legal action against those found violating privacy laws under the pretence of offering benefits.
Allegations of Surveillance by Punjab Intelligence Officers
Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, contesting against AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi constituency, has alleged that intelligence personnel from Punjab have been monitoring his residence. He claims that vehicles associated with Punjab intelligence have been parked outside his home, suggesting an attempt to intimidate him ahead of the elections. The L-G has taken these allegations seriously, instructing the Commissioner of Police to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a detailed report within three days.
Concerns Over Cash Transfers from Punjab
Dikshit has also alleged that substantial amounts of cash are being transported from Punjab to Delhi to influence the upcoming elections. In light of these claims, the L-G has directed the Chief Secretary to inform Delhi’s Chief Electoral Officer. Furthermore, the Commissioner of Police has been tasked with coordinating with police authorities in neighbouring states—Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan—to monitor and prevent any unlawful activities related to these allegations.
AAP’s Response to the Investigations
The Aam Aadmi Party has dismissed the L-G’s directives as politically motivated actions orchestrated by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). AAP leaders argue that the BJP is attempting to derail the Mahila Samman Yojana due to its potential impact on the electorate. Arvind Kejriwal has accused both the BJP and Congress of colluding against AAP, stating, “The BJP doesn’t have courage, hence it asked Congress’s Sandeep Dikshit to file a complaint.” He further alleged that the BJP is deploying goons and police to obstruct the registration process for the proposed welfare schemes.
मुझे चाहे 10 बार जेल जाना पड़े, मैं जाऊंगा लेकिन ‘महिला सम्मान योजना’ और ‘संजीवनी योजना’ लागू करवाकर रहूंगा🔥💯
–@ArvindKejriwal pic.twitter.com/foxJIGBu1f
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) December 28, 2024
Political Tensions Amid Election Preparations
These developments have intensified the political climate in Delhi as parties prepare for the upcoming Assembly elections. The L-G’s actions underscore the administration’s commitment to ensuring fair electoral practices, while AAP’s reactions highlight the contentious nature of the pre-election environment. The outcomes of these investigations could significantly influence public perception and voter sentiment in the forthcoming polls.
