Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday expressed sharp criticism of the central government for excluding Delhi’s tableau from the upcoming Republic Day parade on January 26. Calling the decision politically motivated, Kejriwal questioned the government’s treatment of the national capital and its citizens.
“Delhi is the capital of India, and the tableau of Delhi should participate every year in the January 26 parade. For so many years, Delhi’s tableau has not been allowed to participate. What kind of politics is this? Why do they hate the people of Delhi so much? Why should the people of Delhi vote for them?” Kejriwal said during a press conference.
The Delhi Chief Minister accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government of sidelining the aspirations of Delhiites. Highlighting what he called a lack of vision for the people of Delhi, Kejriwal alleged that the BJP was focused on targeting him and his party rather than addressing issues concerning citizens.
“They have no narrative for the upcoming Delhi assembly polls. They have no vision for the people of Delhi. They only abuse Kejriwal and AAP. Should we vote for them just for this? Why are the tableau and the people of Delhi being stopped from participating in the January 26 parade?” he added.
The exclusion of Delhi’s tableau has sparked debates, with the AAP leadership interpreting it as a deliberate snub. Kejriwal emphasized that the annual Republic Day parade is a matter of national pride and unity, and all states and Union Territories, especially the national capital, should be represented.
As Delhi gears up for its assembly elections, the tableau controversy has added a new dimension to the ongoing political rivalry between AAP and BJP. Whether the issue resonates with voters or remains a point of contention in the political discourse will unfold in the coming months.