In a fierce rebuttal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s allegation that “poison” was being mixed into the Yamuna river water sent from Haryana to Delhi. This charge, made by Kejriwal amid the ongoing Delhi Assembly election campaign, has drawn sharp reactions.
Key Points:
- PM Modi’s Attack: Addressing a rally in Delhi’s Kartar Nagar, Modi dismissed Kejriwal’s accusations as “disgusting,” questioning whether people of Haryana could poison water they also consume. He added, “Are people of Haryana different from those in Delhi?”
- Water Allegations: Kejriwal had claimed that BJP-linked individuals in Haryana were contaminating the Yamuna water being sent to Delhi, threatening public health. He suggested that this poison could not be treated in water plants, and it posed a risk to Delhiites’ lives.
- Modi’s Response: Modi stated, “This is an insult to Haryana and to all Indians. In our country, providing clean drinking water is seen as a virtuous act, not a crime.” He accused Kejriwal’s party of spreading fear and panic.
- Kejriwal’s Warning: The Delhi CM expressed concern for the safety of Delhi residents, warning that stopping the water supply may be necessary due to the contamination. He suggested that BJP’s actions amounted to an attempt at “mass murder.”
- Election Commission’s Notice: Following the serious nature of the allegations, the Election Commission has instructed Kejriwal to provide evidence supporting his claims by 8 pm.
- Political Fallout: The exchange has intensified political tensions ahead of the Delhi elections, with Kejriwal accusing the BJP of negligence and Modi emphasizing that such rhetoric would harm Kejriwal’s prospects.
This back-and-forth between the two leaders reflects the escalating political rivalry as the Delhi Assembly elections approach.
