BJP president J.P. Nadda on Saturday accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi of causing a ₹2,026 crore loss to the public exchequer through intentional lapses in its now-scrapped excise policy.

Nadda, citing a yet-to-be-officially-released CAG report, on social media platform X, labelled the policy as the “AAP’DA model of loot.” He predicted the AAP government’s imminent defeat at the polls and subsequent punishment for its alleged misdeeds.

“Intoxicated by power, high on misgovernance. ‘AAP’DA model of loot is in full display, and that too is on something like liquor,” he said.

Nadda’s statement follows the arrests of then Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his then-deputy Manish Sisodia by the Enforcement Directorate on corruption charges related to the excise policy. Both have since been released on bail.

While the content of the CAG report is circulating in some media outlets, the report itself has not been officially made public.

He alleged, “CAG Report on ‘Liquorgate’ exposes @ArvindKejriwal and @AamAadmiParty Gov. Intentional ‘Lapses’ in Policy Implementation. ₹2,026 Cr Loss to Exchequer money.”

Responding to the BJP’s allegations, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh questioned the BJP’s claims, demanding the release of the official CAG report and pointing out the BJP’s previous denials of the report’s existence. The conflicting statements highlight the ongoing political battle surrounding the Delhi excise policy and its financial implications.

Delhi’s 2021-22 Excise Policy, launched in November 2021, sought to overhaul the city’s liquor retail system. Intended to boost state revenue, curb counterfeit alcohol, and improve the consumer experience, the policy faced immediate and intense criticism over alleged irregularities.

This led to its revocation on August 1, 2022. A key feature was the government’s removal from direct liquor retail, aiming for increased vendor numbers, wider brand selection, and a safer shopping environment. A proposed lowering of the drinking age to 18 was ultimately blocked by legislation.

At least 24 labourers are believed to be trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed lintel at a railway station in Kannauj, which occurred on Saturday around 2:30 PM.

District authorities involved in the rescue operations reported that 15 workers have been pulled to safety, and two of them are in critical condition. At the time of the incident, approximately 30 to 35 workers were on-site for the construction project. Those rescued have been rushed to a district hospital for treatment.

Active rescue efforts are underway by police and administrative teams. The collapse happened during beautification work at the station.

Aseem Arun, the Uttar Pradesh Social Welfare Minister and BJP MLA for the Kannauj (Sadar) constituency, was present at the scene and emphasized that the priority is to save everyone who may be trapped under the debris. He stated, “Our primary responsibility is to rescue anyone who could be under the rubble. We are making every effort to clear the debris. Those who have been rescued and taken to the hospital are reported to be stable and out of danger.” The minister also noted that an investigation will be conducted to uncover the cause of the accident.

In a statement, railway authorities reported that five individuals were injured when the shuttering collapsed during slab casting at Kannauj railway station at 2:39 PM. “The injured were transported to the hospital,” said the railway officials.

Inspector General of Kanpur Range, Jogendra Kumar, confirmed that all rescued laborers are safe and receiving treatment, adding, “No fatalities have been reported as of now.” Senior officials have ordered an investigation into the incident to find out what led to the mishap.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings to the nation on Saturday, commemorating the first anniversary of the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol at the Ayodhya temple.

He reflected on the “centuries of sacrifice, penance, and struggle” that led to the temple’s construction, highlighting its role as a symbol of India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

In a post on X, he expressed, “Best wishes to all the countrymen on the first anniversary of the consecration of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. This temple, built after centuries of sacrifice, penance, and struggle, is a great heritage of our culture and spirituality. I am confident that this divine and magnificent Ram temple will become a great inspiration in the accomplishment of the resolution of a developed India.” The Prime Minister also included a video with his message.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, a grand three-day event organized by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust commenced in Ayodhya. The festivities, scheduled from January 11 to 13, involve cultural programs featuring esteemed musicians and artists.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is set to inaugurate the celebrations with a ceremonial ‘abhishek’ (ritual bath) of the Ram Lalla idol, followed by an address to the public at Angad Teela. A large number of devotees, including saints and spiritual leaders, have gathered for the event.

Ayodhya has been transformed into a vibrant display of devotion and celebration, decorated with lights and various displays. Local administration and trust officials have made detailed arrangements to welcome the influx of pilgrims and visitors. Both Deputy Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh are also anticipated to participate in the festivities, with Chief Minister Yogi’s visit planned to last approximately five hours.

The trust has encouraged devotees from across the nation to engage in this historic celebration, which underscores the unifying and timeless significance of Lord Ram. The festivities will feature Ram Katha, cultural performances, and daily rituals, alongside a large pavilion and Yagnashala prepared to accommodate thousands of attendees.

VIP invitations have been extended to those who could not attend the earlier ceremony, and the public is invited to partake in this spiritual event. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will perform the ‘abhishek’ on January 11, with the celebrations designed to provide a grand spiritual experience for all.