Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a sharp critique of the AAP government in Delhi, calling it an "AAPda government" that lacks vision for the city's progress.
Speaking at a mega rally in Rohini ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, the Prime Minister asserted that all significant developmental projects in the national capital have been undertaken by the BJP-led central government.
Delhi mei bahane nahi, badlav chahiye; BJP ki sarkaar chahiye," (Delhi needs change, not excuses; it wants a BJP government) and chants of which seemed to carry an enthusiastic crowd, welcoming the Prime Minister warmly.
PM Modi emphasised the importance of the next 25 years for India and Delhi, stating, "The coming 25 years are crucial for India's journey to becoming a 'Viksit Bharat' (developed nation). For India to achieve this, it is vital that Delhi progresses in tandem."
He appealed to the people of Delhi to give a chance to the BJP for a better future and that only the BJP can bring real development to the capital.
The prime minister referred to the governance record of BJP, saying, "In the last decade, Delhi has faced a government that is nothing short of an 'AAPda' (disaster). Today, the people of Delhi are demanding change, saying, 'AAPda nahi sahenge; badal ke rahenge' (We won't tolerate disaster; we will bring change)."
PM Modi hailed the BJP as a party of good governance and nation-first ideology, mentioning its success in states like Odisha, Maharashtra, and the Northeast, and at the Centre.
He asked the BJP workers to connect with the people of Delhi and showcase the party's commitment to development. He called this election a "golden opportunity to win the hearts of Delhi."
He reiterated his vision of making Delhi one of the world's top cities with world-class facilities.
"Last year, the Centre allocated over Rs 75,000 crore for health and development projects in Delhi. We want to make Delhi a capital that reflects India's heritage and pride," he said.
The Prime Minister mentioned that the Centre is driving all of Delhi's metro expansion, including the Namo Bharat Train, the Janakpuri-Krishna Park stretch of Delhi Metro Phase-IV, and the Rithala-Kundli corridor. He referred to the PM Awas Yojana and the Swabhimaan Apartment in Ashok Nagar as a "Modi ki guarantee" for affordable housing.
PM Modi also listed achievements like Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi, Kartavya Path, and the National War Memorial, which have become symbols of pride for Delhi, attributing their creation to the Centre's efforts.
He accused the AAP government of squandering a decade and of mismanagement in sanitation, public transport, and law and order.
"Delhi is suffering whenever such people are at the helm of affairs," he said, alluding to untidy colonies and unsafe situations.
Talking about the recent controversy relating to the Chief Minister's Delhi residence, branded "Sheesh Mahal" by the Bharatiya Janata Party PM Modi made a scathing attack on the AAP for prioritising luxuries than public welfare.
"When people were struggling during the COVID-19 crisis, they were busy building their 'Sheesh Mahal.' This shows their disregard for Delhi's citizens," he said.
The Prime Minister also accused the AAP of not implementing central welfare schemes like Ayushman Bharat for political reasons, depriving Delhi residents of crucial benefits.
"Intention, decision, loyalty and policy are very important in the politics. However, there is a big question on their intention and loyalty," PM Modi said, adding that top AAP leaders are today accused of several scams.
The rally was attended by senior BJP leaders, including Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, MPs Manoj Tiwari, Bansuri Swaraj, Kamaljeet Sehrawat, and Ramesh Bidhuri.
Outside the venue, replicas of the Delhi Chief Minister's residence, labeled "Sheesh Mahal," were put up, which reflected the BJP's criticism of the AAP government.
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