How Effective Is BJP's 'Freebie-Mantra' Against Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi Elections?

Accusing Arvind Kejriwal of distributing freebies to Delhiites, the BJP has unleashed a flood of free promises in its manifesto. Leaving aside electoral promises like free electricity, water, and education, it seems the BJP is now intent on surpassing the Aam Aadmi Party.
The BJP has pledged a range of free services in Delhi, careful not to label them as mere giveaways.

Source: aajtak

The BJP has released its election manifesto for the Delhi Assembly elections. While unveiling the 'Sankalp Patra', BJP President JP Nadda detailed their promises, stating that 'we must fulfill our resolutions'. He also claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has transformed political culture.

JP Nadda remarked that manifestos used to be released but were forgotten by political parties. However, now they have transformed into commitments. In 2014, the BJP made 500 promises, out of which 499 have been fulfilled. Our track record for keeping promises is unparalleled at 99.9 percent, he stated.

Using Maharashtra and Haryana as examples, Nadda said the BJP will give women Rs 2,500 monthly if elected in Delhi. It's noteworthy that the AAP has promised Rs 2,100 and Congress Rs 2,500.

Ranging from women's welfare to elder care, the BJP has promised various welfare schemes, including providing a hearty meal for just Rs 5 to those in slums.

What's in the BJP's Sankalp Patra?

The BJP's election manifesto focuses heavily on women, the elderly, and the disadvantaged. Key announcements include:

1.

Under women's prosperity, Delhi women will receive Rs 2,500 monthly if a BJP government is formed.

2.

Pregnant women will receive Rs 21,000 along with nutritional kits, as per the manifesto.

3.

The BJP promises one free LPG cylinder each on Holi and Diwali, plus a Rs 500 subsidy on cylinders.

4.

The BJP pledges to extend the Ayushman Bharat scheme to Delhi residents, which has not been implemented by the current AAP government.

5.

The BJP promises pensions up to Rs 3,000 for Delhi's senior citizens, raising it from Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500 for ages 60-70 and from Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,000 for those over 70.

6.

Through Atal Canteens, the BJP vows to provide meals for Rs 5 in all slums and shanties.

What Sets BJP Apart from the Aam Aadmi Party?

The BJP has promised to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme in Delhi, but AAP argues that Arvind Kejriwal’s Sanjeevani Yojana is more beneficial for Delhiites.

Comparing Sanjeevani Yojana and Ayushman Bharat, Delhi's Chief Minister, Atishi, claimed that the former is superior in all respects. According to Atishi, Ayushman Bharat has several conditions, while Sanjeevani will be available to all seniors over 60, with complete treatment available in both government and private hospitals under Arvind Kejriwal's assurance.

The AAP had recently announced the relaunch of a pension scheme for the elderly, aiming to include 80,000 new beneficiaries. Previously, 4.5 lakh people benefited from this scheme, and the numbers are expected to rise. Additionally, seniors aged 60-69 will receive Rs 2,000 monthly, while those over 70 will get Rs 2,500.

The BJP manifesto promises to raise the pension for elders over 70 from Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,000, offering up to Rs 3,000 for Delhi's senior citizens.

Although the BJP does not include free electricity, water, and education in their manifesto, they have made similar yet strategic promises to avoid being labeled as distributing 'freebies'.

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