AAP Unveils Middle-Class Centric Manifesto Ahead of Delhi Elections
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has thrown its hat into the ring for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections with a strong focus on the middle class. Party leader and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal unveiled the manifesto on Wednesday, outlining seven key demands for the central government ahead of the Union Budget. He emphasized, “We demand that the next Budget of the country be dedicated to the middle class,” and went on to list his party’s aspirations:
- Increase the education budget to 10% from the current 2%.
- implement a cap on private school fees.
- Provide subsidies and scholarships for higher education.
- Increase the health budget to 10% and remove tax exemptions on health insurance.
- Raise the income tax exemption limit to ₹10 lakh from ₹7 lakh.
- Remove GST from essential commodities.
- Establish robust retirement plans, pension schemes for seniors, and offer free medical services for senior citizens across all government and private hospitals nationwide. Kejriwal proposed a 50% concession on rail travel for senior citizens.
Kejriwal, while highlighting AAP’s accomplishments in Delhi, stated,“We use tax money for education,protected middle class from inflation. We reduced power tariff, water bills, we improved infrastructure in government hospitals.”
The manifesto launch came amidst a heightened tension between AAP and the BJP in Delhi. Claiming “hooliganism” by BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri and his associates against AAP workers, Atishi, Delhi’s Chief Minister, addressed a press conference alongside Kejriwal. She alleged the BJP had created an atmosphere of “terror” in the Kalkaji constituency, urging the Election Commission of india (ECI) to take action against these alleged culprits.
Atishi detailed how “BJP workers, and some people who claim to be the ‘bhatijas (nephews)’ of Ramesh Bidhuri, are threatening AAP workers, grabbing their collars. They are snatching and burning the campaign materials,” creating what she described as an surroundings of fear in the Kalkaji Vidhan Sabha region.
Kejriwal, echoing Atishi’s concerns, stated, “What Atishi said is not limited to just one assembly constituency. BJP has resorted to hooliganism.” He further asserted, “Any party or candidate resorts to violence only when they see that it is impossible to win peacefully. BJP is heading towards a historic defeat in Delhi. It will be written in history that a party will lose so badly.”
The February 5th election day is fast approaching, with votes being counted on February 8th. This contest is shaping up to be a three-way battle between the incumbent AAP, the BJP, and the Congress.While the Congress, after 15 years in power, has experienced setbacks in the last two parliamentary elections and failed to secure any seats, the AAP emerged victorious in 2020, winning 62 out of 70 seats, leaving the BJP with 8 seats.
What specific measures in your ‘India 2.0’ plan are directly aimed at addressing teh financial concerns of the middle class, such as rising cost of living, inflation, and unemployment?
Archyde: In Conversation with Arvind Kejriwal – Navigating the Middle Class Journey in Delhi
The spotlight shifts to Archyde’s studio as we welcome aさら promising figure in Indian politics, the Chief Minister of Delhi and National Convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Arvind Kejriwal. With the Delhi assembly elections just around the corner, weSit down with him to discuss thier party’s manifesto and its focus on the middle class.
Archyde: Sir, thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right in. AAP has placed the middle class at the heart of its election manifesto. What inspired this focus?
Arvind Kejriwal: Thank you for having me.Indeed, our manifestoeneurs the middle class as thay form the backbone of our society and our economy. They’re the ones driving innovations, creating jobs, and pushing India forward. Though, they’ve been left behind, struggling with inflation, high taxes, and spiraling costs. It’s our duty to stand up for them and provide a government that puts their needs first.
Archyde: You’ve promised significant subsidies on electricity and water bills.Critics argue that these are mere populist measures. How do you respond?
Arvind Kejriwal: We believe in empowering the common man.These subsidies are not handouts; they’re investments in our people.Delhi has seen a 55% reduction in crimes as we came to power, largely due to better street lighting. Free water and heavily subsidized electricity ensure no one goes without these basic necessities. Moreover, our subsidy bill is a fraction of the Rs. 1.32 lakh crore offered by the Center in tax exemptions to corporates.
Archyde: Education and healthcare have also been key focus areas. Can you elaborate on your plans?
Arvind Kejriwal: Absolutely. We want to ensure that every child in Delhi gets access to quality education and healthcare. That’s why we’re investing heavily in infrastructure, teacher training, and progressive curriculums. As for healthcare, we’re building the world’s largest Mega Food Park and the Delhiendu Yojana to ensure no one sleeps hungry. We’ve also increased investment in our hospitals, reducing wait times and improving health outcomes.
Archyde: Let’s talk about the India 2.0 plan introduced in your manifesto. What is it, and how does it benefit Delhi’s middle class?
Arvind Kejriwal: India 2.0 is our vision for a developed India, where our economy is not just about quantity but also about quality. It’s a Rs. 5 lakh crore program to invest in Delhi’s infrastructure, reduce pollution, and create jobs. For the middle class, this means better connectivity, cleaner air, and more job opportunities close to home. It’s about making Delhi a liveable and lovable city again.
Archyde: Delhi has made significant strides under your leadership, but challenges remain. What would you say to those still skeptical about AAP?
Arvind Kejriwal: I would say, come and see for yourself. Delhi has transformed in the past five years. We’ve reduced pollution, improved education and healthcare, and made Delhi one of the safest cities in India. But we’re not resting on our laurels. we’ve set ambitious targets because we believe in dreaming big. We invite everyone to join us on this journey of transforming Delhi and India.
Archyde: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Kejriwal. We wish you and AAP the very best in the upcoming elections.
Arvind Kejriwal: Thank you. We’re looking forward to serving the people of Delhi for another five years.
