In a forceful address to Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharply criticized the opposition, particularly targeting Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) amidst the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Modi highlighted his administration’s commitment to tangible development contrasts sharply with the opposition’s focus on superficial luxuries.

Starting his speech, Modi referenced allegations against Kejriwal for extravagant spending on luxury fittings in his official residence, using this to symbolize a broader critique of the opposition’s priorities. He stated, “Some political leaders focus on Jacuzzis and stylish showers… while our government prioritizes basic needs like water connections for every home.”

Continuing his attack, Modi condemned the AAP for not fulfilling their election promises and contrasted this with the BJP’s record in states like Haryana and Maharashtra, where his party recently secured significant electoral victories. He accused the opposition of betraying the youth by failing to deliver on job promises, despite making grandiose pledges during election campaigns.

The Prime Minister also did not spare the Congress party. He criticized them for their historical slogan ‘garibi hatao’ (remove poverty), claiming it remained unfulfilled, and contrasted it with the BJP’s record over the last decade, which he said lifted millions from poverty. Modi also referenced past Congress leadership failures, claiming that his government has ensured direct benefits to the needy, with significant funds deposited directly into the accounts of the poor.

Modi’s speech also touched on recent budget announcements, highlighting tax relief measures for the middle class, and recommended a book on US foreign policy during JFK’s presidency, drawing a parallel to current foreign policy challenges faced by India.

Throughout his speech, Modi’s rhetoric was met with reactions ranging from vehement protests by opposition members to supportive thumping of desks by his party’s MPs, illustrating the heated and divisive atmosphere in Indian politics as Delhi prepares for critical elections.

In a harrowing incident in the dense forests along the border of Bijapur and Dantewada districts, three security personnel sustained injuries during a rigorous anti-Naxalite operation on Tuesday. The operation, involving members from the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), was marred by an improvised explosive device (IED) blast and a perilous encounter with a spike trap, according to a senior police official.

The official reported that the incident occurred when two jawans accidentally triggered a pressure-activated IED, resulting in an explosion. Concurrently, another member of the security team suffered injuries after stepping on a spike trap, a hostile device strategically placed by Naxalites to impede law enforcement efforts.

Immediate medical attention was provided on-site, and the injured personnel were subsequently airlifted to a hospital in Raipur for further medical treatment. The operation highlights the ongoing risks and challenges faced by security forces in regions affected by Naxalite insurgency, underscoring the perilous nature of maintaining law and order in such areas.

On the eve of the Delhi Assembly elections, the Election Commission (EC) has issued a firm rebuttal to accusations of bias and undue influence, primarily leveled by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The Commission emphasized its dedication to neutrality and the rigorous adherence to legal protocols, despite claims of political pressure.

In a recent statement published on the social media platform X, the EC addressed what it described as “repeated pressure tactics” used by various political parties and candidates, including accusations of attempting to malign the Commission’s authority. The statement highlighted the EC’s commitment to restraint and its efforts to manage criticisms with “sagacity and stoicism.”

This response follows a series of pointed critiques from prominent AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and party chief Arvind Kejriwal. The criticism intensified after allegations surfaced regarding the family of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Ramesh Bidhuri violating the Model Code of Conduct in Delhi’s Kalkaji area, with Atishi accusing the EC of inaction.

Atishi’s posts on X detailed how she reported the misconduct to both the Delhi Police and the EC, only to find herself charged instead. Furthermore, Kejriwal has also been vocal, suggesting that the EC and Delhi Police are biased towards the BJP, alleging that they turn a blind eye to corrupt practices such as distributing liquor and money for votes.

In a particularly harsh critique, Kejriwal questioned the future prospects of the Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, insinuating potential post-retirement offers from the BJP that could compromise the electoral process.

The EC, in its defense, asserted that all complaints and issues raised ahead of the polls were thoroughly investigated by over 150,000 officials working within a robust legal framework to ensure fairness and transparency.

As Delhi’s voters prepare to cast their ballots for the 70 assembly seats, the EC’s assurances aim to reinforce trust in the electoral process amidst swirling allegations of misconduct and bias. The results of the election, which will determine if AAP secures a third consecutive term, are eagerly awaited.