BJP Shares Video of Cleanup Efforts, AAP Accuses Party of Double Standards
New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday released a video showcasing the commencement of its promised Yamuna cleaning drive. Former BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri shared the video, highlighting the use of modern equipment, including skimmers to remove garbage, weed harvesters, and dredge utility craft, to improve the river’s condition.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena confirmed the initiative, stating, “Cleaning of river Yamuna has begun with trash skimmers, weed harvesters, and dredge utility craft starting operations today.” He also revealed that he had met with the Chief Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary (I&FC) on Sunday, directing them to begin work immediately.
AAP Slams BJP for Taking Credit
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), however, criticized the BJP for allegedly taking selective responsibility for governance. Interim Chief Minister Atishi questioned the BJP’s stance, pointing out that while the party holds her responsible for power cuts, it simultaneously claims credit for the Yamuna cleanup.
“I want to ask the BJP to decide whether they are running the government or not. When there are power cuts, they say the caretaker CM is responsible, but when the Yamuna cleaning machines arrive, they say BJP and the LG are running the government. They should decide whether they are in charge or not,” Atishi remarked.
Yamuna Pollution a Key Poll Issue
The cleaning of the Yamuna was a major talking point in the recently concluded Delhi Assembly elections. The BJP accused AAP of failing to clean the river despite 10 years in power, while former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the Haryana BJP government had deliberately contaminated Delhi’s water supply by releasing pollutants into the Yamuna—an accusation the BJP denied.
As the political tug-of-war continues, the cleaning efforts are now underway, with both parties seeking to claim credit for the long-overdue initiative.
