Kejriwal Unveils 7 Guarantees For Delhi’s Dhobi Community, Promises Welfare Board And Subsidized Utilities

The chief minister also spoke about the challenges faced by the Dhobi community, including the absence of a unified platform to voice their concerns and the financial strain from commercial utility rates.

By
Rajkaran Bureau
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arvind

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday unveiled a set of seven guarantees aimed at uplifting the Dhobi (washerfolk) community in the national capital. The promises include the establishment of a dedicated welfare board, reduced electricity and water rates, skill training for youth, and measures to regularize and support their livelihoods if AAP retains power in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections.

Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal said, “The Dhobi community has been an integral part of our society, yet their concerns have often been overlooked. As a party committed to social justice, we pledge these seven guarantees to improve their socio-economic conditions.”

The Seven Guarantees

  1. Welfare Board for Dhobis: A Dhobi Samuday Welfare Board will be established to address grievances, provide a platform for their concerns, and develop targeted welfare schemes.
  2. Domestic Electricity and Water Rates: Dhobi ghats and ironing shops will be charged at domestic rates for electricity and water, easing their financial burden.
  3. Education and Skill Training: Children from the Dhobi community will be provided free education and skill training to ensure better opportunities for their future.
  4. Regularization of Makeshift Ironing Shops: Makeshift ironing shops will be regularized to provide stability and protection from eviction.
  5. Resumption of Licensing Process: The halted process for issuing licenses to Dhobis will be resumed to formalize their operations and grant them legal recognition.
  6. Welfare Schemes for the Elderly: Comprehensive welfare programs will be launched for elderly members of the community, including financial aid and healthcare benefits.
  7. Infrastructure Upgrades: Existing Dhobi ghats will be modernized, and new facilities will be built to improve working conditions.

A Step Toward Inclusive Growth

Kejriwal emphasized the importance of creating equitable opportunities for marginalized communities like the Dhobis. “Our government has always prioritized inclusivity, and these guarantees are another step in that direction,” he said.

The announcement comes as political parties ramp up outreach efforts ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections. With the Dhobi community forming a significant voter base in parts of the city, AAP’s initiative is expected to resonate strongly.