Delhi Elections: AAP Intensifies Padyatra Campaign to Support Arvind Kejriwal

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has intensified its Padyatra campaign, urging citizens to support Arvind Kejriwal in the upcoming February 2025 elections. The campaign saw party members actively engaging with residents across various Assembly constituencies. Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, speaking in Krishna Nagar, criticised the BJP for issues like clogged drains and costly electricity.

Both Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia were previously detained in connection with an excise policy case but have since been released from Tihar Jail. Sisodia expressed confidence that the public would elect Kejriwal's government for another term of five years. He accused the BJP of arresting Kejriwal to hinder his work for the people.

Allegations Against BJP

In Matiala, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh warned that voting for the BJP could lead to the discontinuation of free services provided by the AAP government. Singh stated, "Kejriwal is giving Delhiites free electricity, water, education, healthcare, free bus travel for women, free pilgrimage for the elderly which was why he was out in jail by the BJP." He suggested these benefits were targeted by the BJP.

Saurabh Bharadwaj, campaigning in Vishwas Nagar, accused the BJP of removing jobs from young people by terminating positions like bus marshals and staff at hospitals and the Delhi Commission for Women. He asserted that the BJP aims to shut down Delhi but vowed that AAP would prevent this from happening.

Campaign Efforts and Criticism

AAP leaders such as Kailash Gahlot, Mukesh Ahlawat, and Deputy Speaker Rakhi Birla led efforts in RK Puram, Janakpuri, and Patel Nagar constituencies. Meanwhile, Delhi BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor claimed that AAP's campaign was receiving a lukewarm response. He suggested that this indicated a shift away from the ruling party.

Kapoor also alleged that Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, and Bharadwaj avoided residential areas to escape questions about inadequate development and infrastructure maintenance. He implied that this avoidance reflected poorly on their campaign strategy.

Kejriwal's Political Strategy

Facing corruption allegations, Arvind Kejriwal resigned as Delhi Chief Minister. He stated he would only return to power after receiving a clean mandate from voters in the upcoming election. This move is seen as part of his strategy to regain public trust and leadership.

The AAP's campaign continues to focus on highlighting its achievements while criticising the opposition's governance record. As the election approaches, both parties are intensifying their efforts to sway public opinion in their favour.