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.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday announced that the state government will reclaim all land that has been taken under the guise of waqf.

Speaking at the ‘Maha Kumbh Mahasammelan’ organized by a private news channel, he emphasized that the belief system of Sanatan Dharma represents the world’s oldest culture, unmatched by any other religion or sect.

“I inherit a legacy that spans thousands of years, filled with cultural and spiritual events that are equally ancient. The tradition of Sanatan is as vast as the sky and incomparable,” Adityanath stated, according to an official release.

He took a firm stance regarding the Waqf Board, questioning whether it serves as a legitimate board or merely as a front for land mafias. He mentioned that his government has amended the Waqf Act and is actively investigating all “occupied” land. “We will reclaim every inch of land misappropriated in the name of waqf, which will be utilized to build homes, educational institutions, and hospitals for the underprivileged,” he asserted.

Highlighting the ancient heritage of Sanatan Dharma, Adityanath declared that the tradition of Kumbh significantly predates the establishment of the Waqf institution. “The stature of Sanatan Dharma is greater than the sky and deeper than the ocean. It cannot be compared to any sect or religion,” he affirmed.

The Chief Minister also criticized the Samajwadi Party (SP) and its leaders, accusing them of not adhering to the principles of socialist leader Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia. He recalled Dr. Lohia’s words: “To understand India, one must study the traditions of Ram, Krishna, and Shiva,” adding that those claiming to follow Dr. Lohia’s ideals have not grasped the essence of his message.

Addressing the issue of religious sites in Sambhal, Adityanath noted that Puranas describe Sambhal as the birthplace of Kalki, the tenth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He condemned attempts to encroach on religious sites, stating that his government took decisive actions as mandated by the court to send a strong message to those involved in rioting.

Regarding Ayodhya, he remarked, “We have transformed Ayodhya into a center of development and heritage. Those who previously opposed Ayodhya’s progress now lack the moral authority to visit the city.”

On the topic of religious conversion and “ghar wapsi,” he expressed, “If someone sincerely wishes to return to their original faith from the heart, they should be welcomed. This reflects respect for religion and tradition.”

Adityanath stressed that Sanatan Dharma has always held the highest position, asserting that Hindu unity and national unity are interconnected. “History shows that division leads to weakness, while unity makes us invincible. That is why I have always maintained ‘Batenge to katenge, ek rahenge to nek rahenge’ (Divided we fall, united we thrive),” he said.

Criticizing the opposition, he accused certain groups of trying to divide society along caste and religious lines, labeling them as forces attempting to weaken the nation. However, he noted that the public has become more aware and resilient against such divisive strategies.

Emphasizing the significance of the Maha Kumbh, he explained that after the ‘Devasura Sangram’ (battle between gods and demons), drops of nectar fell at four sacred locations — Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The Maha Kumbh at these sites has historically shaped India’s ideology, knowledge, and social direction.

He asserted that the Maha Kumbh represents more than just a religious gathering; it symbolizes India’s spiritual heritage and national unity. During the event, sages from across India will convene to reflect on contemporary social and political conditions, making the occasion vital for preserving cultural traditions for future generations.

He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, stating, “Organizing the Maha Kumbh signifies a remarkable blend of India’s heritage and development.” Reflecting on the success of the 2019 Prayagraj Kumbh, he highlighted the seamless integration of modern technology, efficient management, and cultural traditions. “We aim for the same level of harmony in the upcoming Maha Kumbh,” he assured.

Adityanath noted that the UP government, in collaboration with the Centre, has implemented numerous measures to ensure the Maha Kumbh is grand and meticulously planned. “This event not only draws citizens from India but also people from around the world,” he remarked, characterizing the Maha Kumbh as a golden opportunity to showcase the nation’s rich cultural heritage on an international stage.

He further stated that the event transcends caste, creed, and gender barriers. The Maha Kumbh will be a powerful reflection of India’s progress over the past decade under PM Modi’s leadership, highlighting the country’s prosperity, rich heritage, and spiritual traditions.

He also accused certain individuals of attempting to damage the nation’s image for political gain but emphasized that the people of India have grown more aware and are no longer swayed by divisive tactics. “Today, it is not the citizens of Uttar Pradesh who are fleeing the state, but the mafia and criminals,” he added.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Wednesday accused BJP leader Parvesh Verma of handing out cash to women in New Delhi, the constituency represented by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal.

During a press conference, Atishi claimed that Rs 1,100 was distributed to women from slum areas at Verma’s residence in Windsor Place, with their voter ID details being recorded. She stated, “The BJP is distributing money and checking voter cards in the New Delhi assembly constituency, where Arvind Kejriwal is a candidate.

Today, Parvesh Verma was caught red-handed giving out money at his official residence, money he received as an MP. Women from various slums in the New Delhi area were called there and handed Rs 1,100 in an envelope,” ANI reported her as saying.

Earlier in the day, Kejriwal had alleged that women voters in his constituency were being paid Rs 1,100 for their votes. “I have just returned from several areas in my New Delhi Vidhan Sabha constituency, and everywhere I went, people told me that these individuals are openly buying votes, paying Rs 1,100 for each vote. People said they would take the money but wouldn’t vote for them,” he posted on X.

Kejriwal also hinted that the BJP might declare Parvesh Verma as their chief ministerial candidate, questioning whether the people of Delhi would want such a leader.

In response to the accusations, Parvesh Verma stated that the money was distributed as part of a campaign by ‘Rashtriya Swabhiman’, an NGO founded by his late father, former Delhi Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma.

“I see the struggles faced by women that Arvind Kejriwal has ignored for 11 years. They have been suffering, so I decided to support them with Rs 1,100 per month. Unlike Arvind Kejriwal, I am not distributing liquor; I am glad to be able to help people,” he said.

Verma added that the Rashtriya Swabhiman has been actively involved in community support, including redevelopment efforts in villages affected by disasters. Elections for the 70-member Delhi Assembly are scheduled for February next year.