Delhi Election: In Latest Poll Pitch, Kejriwal Vows To Fund Private Security For RWAs If AAP Retains Power

Arvind Kejriwal, leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), announced on Friday that if the party returns to power in Delhi, it will allocate funds to Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to hire private security guards. This announcement comes as the high-stakes assembly elections near, with the AAP seeking a third consecutive term.

In an effort to address concerns of anti-incumbency, the ruling AAP has rolled out a range of schemes and grants to appeal to voters. Alongside existing initiatives such as improved government schools, mohalla clinics, free electricity, free bus rides for women, and pilgrimage grants for senior citizens, the party has introduced new welfare measures. These include a ₹2,100 monthly honorarium for women, free healthcare for the elderly, and ₹10 lakh insurance for auto drivers.

The elections for all 70 assembly seats in Delhi are scheduled for February 5, with votes to be counted on February 8. The contest is expected to be a triangular race, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress aiming to prevent AAP from securing a third consecutive term in power.

The last date for candidates to file nominations is January 17, with scrutiny set for January 18. Nominations can be withdrawn until January 20.

"We have deliberately scheduled the polling on a Wednesday to encourage higher voter turnout, as we did in Maharashtra. The entire election process will conclude by February 10," said Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar at a press conference.

Kumar dismissed allegations that eligible voters' names were being removed from the voter list, asserting that no deletions occur without proper documentation, field verification, and an opportunity for affected individuals to be heard. He emphasised that the process for voter additions and deletions is transparent, rigorous, and resistant to arbitrary changes.

Delhi's electorate consists of 1.55 crore voters, including 83.49 lakh men, 71.74 lakh women, and 1,261 transgender persons, with 58 general seats and 12 reserved seats.