With the Delhi Assembly elections just days away, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Chief Arvind Kejriwal has intensified his campaigning by addressing public meetings in key constituencies and making strong promises to voters. In a rally on Monday, Kejriwal openly spoke about his caste, declaring himself a "Baniya" and assuring voters that he knows how to manage resources efficiently to fund the various welfare schemes his government has promised.
Kejriwal's remarks came during his speeches at Palam, Matiala, and Bijwasan. Addressing the crowd at Palam, he emphasized his expertise in managing finances and told the attendees, "They ask where the money will come from. I am a Baniya. I know how to manage resources. You do not need to worry. I know the maths and I will arrange it (the money)." With less than 10 days to go before the polls, Kejriwal's statements have drawn attention, as he sought to reassure the public about the feasibility of his party's welfare initiatives.
The former Delhi Chief Minister used his speeches to differentiate the AAP's approach from that of the BJP. "The AAP is the party for common people, whereas the BJP is a party for rich people," he claimed, adding that the AAP government has worked tirelessly for the welfare of ordinary citizens, including providing free electricity, water, and education. Kejriwal also accused the BJP of planning to undo these schemes if they were to come to power, stating that the BJP would shut down government schools, end free electricity, and cancel bus rides for women.
The AAP leader continued to highlight the financial support provided to Delhi's residents through his government’s welfare initiatives, claiming that each household in Delhi receives direct benefits worth Rs 25,000 per month. He contrasted this with the BJP, which, according to Kejriwal, uses public funds to write off loans for the "rich friends" of the party.
Kejriwal’s speeches also touched on the issue of Jat reservation. During his address in Bijwasan, he criticized the exclusion of Delhi’s Jat community from the central government's OBC list, which allows Jats in states like Rajasthan and Haryana to benefit from various affirmative action schemes. Kejriwal called this exclusion an injustice and promised to fight for the inclusion of Delhi’s Jats in the central OBC list, ensuring they receive the same benefits as their counterparts in neighboring states.
The Delhi Assembly elections are set for February 5, with results scheduled to be announced on February 8. The AAP is seeking a third consecutive term, while the BJP is hoping to reclaim power in Delhi after 25 years.
