What was once criticised as “free ki revri” and “freebies” has now become the central focus for the BJP and the Congress, as they vie for votes in the February 5 Delhi elections. This comes amid the Finance department highlighting “fiscal stress” facing the government. The reason: 15% of the total Budget of Delhi is spent on subsidies.
However, the BJP is in no mood to rock the boat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had originally coined the term “free ki revri” to describe the subsidy schemes introduced by the AAP government, has himself assured that “all ongoing welfare schemes in Delhi will continue if the BJP forms the government”.
Kickstarting BJP’s election campaign, Modi, while addressing Parivartan Rally in Rohini on Sunday, had said: “…aapda (disaster) people are panicking and spreading lies, as they sense their defeat in the Delhi elections. They are scaring people by saying that if BJP comes to power, welfare schemes will stop. But I want to assure the people of Delhi that no scheme will be stopped but dishonest people will be removed.”
“The party has conducted surveys, analysed the voting pattern of the last two polls and how AAP has gained popularity. It has realised that these schemes had given good results and was one of the major reasons for AAP winning… people of Delhi care about local issues and such schemes when it comes to Assembly polls… they don’t care about national security… these schemes have a direct impact on their daily lives…” said a senior BJP leader.
The party had earlier also announced that the AAP government’s subsidy and welfare schemes like free electricity and water, as well as pink pass scheme, among others, will continue. However, Modi himself assuring the same has changed the scenario on the ground.
“Till now, only BJP leaders and workers were spreading the information but now with the PM himself assuring the people… it will have a huge impact and help in transferring votes to BJP… We are receiving good response after his announcement,” the leader said.
Another leader said the party will make it a point to mention these schemes in its manifesto.
While the BJP so far has not announced any poll promise, it had earlier announced that it will extend electricity subsidy to commercial consumers as well if it comes to power. The Congress, too, has announced that it will provide electricity subsidy up to 400 units if it forms the government, making the battleground tougher for AAP.
Currently, Delhiites under AAP rule get zero bill up to 200 units and 50% charge up to 400 units.
The Congress has announced two other poll promises – health insurance worth Rs 25 lakh for every resident, and Rs 2,500 monthly assistance to women.
The AAP, meanwhile, has made six poll promises — Rs 2,500 financial assistance for woman; free treatment for those above 60 years old, Rs 18,000 per month for pandits in temples and granthis in gurdwara; scholarship to cover fees as well as the cost of travel and stay for Dalit students who secure admission for higher education at top international universities; and 24-hour water supply.
“Anti-incumbency is high… AAP will not leave any stone unturned to win again… The announcement of subsidy and welfare schemes have been AAP’s core strength and it is receiving overwhelming response… many people are registering for its proposed schemes,” said a source in AAP.
For the BJP as well, welfare schemes form a major part of its “central strategy”. Besides, it is also attacking AAP on its alleged failures by raising issues such as ‘Sheesh Mahal’, corruption charges against AAP leaders and liquor scam, among others.
Discover the Benefits of Our Subscription!
Stay informed with access to our award-winning journalism.
Avoid misinformation with trusted, accurate reporting.
Make smarter decisions with insights that matter.
Choose your subscription package