The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday unveiled the first part of its manifesto, titled Sankalp Patra, for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, emphasizing women’s empowerment and senior citizen welfare.
Key Promises in BJP Manifesto
BJP president JP Nadda announced the following initiatives:
- Monthly assistance of ₹2,500 for women
- ₹21,000 for pregnant women
- LPG cylinders at ₹500 for the poor
- ₹2,500 monthly pension for senior citizens
- Free LPG cylinders for women during Holi and Diwali
Nadda stated, “The welfare schemes we have announced will serve as the foundation of a developed Delhi. Our manifesto prioritizes the empowerment of women and the welfare of senior citizens.”
Continuation and Enhancement of Welfare Schemes
Nadda assured that if the BJP forms the government, all existing public welfare schemes will not only continue but be strengthened. He also criticized the AAP-led government’s implementation of free bus travel for women, promising to increase the fleet of buses to ensure better service.
AAP’s Counterattack
AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal accused the BJP of copying his party’s welfare initiatives. “The BJP manifesto is nothing but a copy of AAP’s welfare schemes. The BJP leadership should publicly acknowledge that welfare measures like free electricity, water, and bus services are a boon for the people,” Kejriwal said.
He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who previously criticized AAP’s welfare programs as “revdis” (freebies), should now admit their value. “The BJP manifesto can be summed up in one line — ‘Arvind Kejriwal’s work is good, and we will continue it,’” Kejriwal remarked.
Competing Promises
While the AAP has promised ₹2,100 per month for women, the BJP has pledged ₹2,500. Meanwhile, the Congress has also offered ₹2,500 in its manifesto.
Kejriwal criticized the BJP for not addressing critical issues like law and order, housing for slum dwellers, and regularizing unauthorised colonies. He emphasized that his government’s welfare measures have significantly benefited Delhi’s residents and should not be dismissed as mere “freebies.”
BJP’s Women-Centric Policies
Highlighting its focus on maternal safety and nutrition, Nadda referenced the Central Government’s initiative to increase maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks in 2017. He reiterated the party’s commitment to empowering women through practical and impactful policies.
As the election race heats up, both parties are showcasing their achievements and promises, vying for the support of Delhi’s voters.
