Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal responded sharply on Wednesday to Senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, who labeled AAP as the ‘vipaksh’ (Opposition) during a Congress poll event in Delhi. Kejriwal asserted that the public perceives the BJP and Congress as collaborating against AAP in the upcoming elections.
“Shri Gehlot ji, you made it clear that AAP is the opposition to Congress in Delhi, while remaining silent on the BJP. People believe that AAP stands against both Congress and BJP, with the latter two appearing to work together against us. Until now, this alliance between you has been more of a secret; today, you’ve made it public. Thank you for this clarification on behalf of the people of Delhi,” Kejriwal wrote on X.
Earlier in the day, Gehlot stated that AAP is indeed Congress’s opposition and remarked on the changing political landscape in Delhi. He expressed confidence that Congress’s campaign has improved and suggested that the results this time would be different, stating, “The chances of Congress forming the government in Delhi are increasing, and I believe this is necessary for the country as well.”
On Wednesday, Congress also unveiled its “Jeevan Raksha Yojana,” promising free health insurance coverage of up to Rs 25 lakh if elected in Delhi. Gehlot emphasized that this scheme underscores the party’s commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of Delhi residents. The party’s campaign slogan, “Hogi Har Zarurat Puri, Congress Hai Zaroori,” was prominently featured during the announcement, reflecting Congress’s pledge to ensure essential services for all.
The proposed scheme aims to provide comprehensive health coverage for families, including medical expenses related to critical illnesses, hospitalizations, and treatments.
Additionally, earlier on Wednesday, the Trinamool Congress—another key ally in the INDIA coalition—extended its support to AAP for the Delhi elections, following an endorsement from the Samajwadi Party a day prior.
Kejriwal expressed his gratitude towards the Trinamool Congress and its leader Mamata Banerjee, saying, “TMC has announced its support for AAP in the Delhi elections. I am personally grateful to Mamata Didi. Thank you, Didi. You have always supported and blessed us in both good and challenging times,” he posted on X.
Polling for the 70-member Delhi Assembly is scheduled for February 5, with votes to be counted on February 8.