Khandelwal, representing the Chandni Chowk constituency, asserted that Kejriwal has failed to fulfill his responsibilities as Chief Minister, instead engaging in unfounded accusations against political adversaries. He labeled Kejriwal a "machine of lies," alleging that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader frequently forgets his own actions and resorts to baseless claims due to an inability to provide satisfactory answers to the citizens of Delhi.
"Making false and fabricated allegations has become Arvind Kejriwal's nature," Khandelwal stated, emphasizing that such behavior is a tactic to divert public attention from the government's shortcomings. He challenged Kejriwal to publish a comprehensive white paper detailing the administration's achievements over the past decade, suggesting that such a document would expose the truth and allow the public to discern between right and wrong.
This critique aligns with previous statements from BJP leaders who have accused the AAP government of mismanagement and failure to deliver on promises. In October 2024, during a rally in Delhi's Burari area, BJP leader Bansuri Swaraj criticized the AAP's handling of healthcare services, particularly the operation of Mohalla clinics. Swaraj claimed that these clinics, touted as a cornerstone of Delhi's healthcare model, were non-functional during critical times, notably the COVID-19 pandemic. She further alleged that personnel at these clinics lacked proper medical knowledge, leading to the dispensation of incorrect medications.
Khandelwal has previously accused Kejriwal of engaging in political theatrics, referring to initiatives like the 'Janata ki Adalat' as mere "political drama" and an "insult" to the democratic system. He questioned the timing of such events, suggesting they are strategically organized to divert public attention as elections approach.
The BJP's critique extends to allegations of corruption and administrative failures within the AAP government. During the same Burari rally, BJP leader Vijender Gupta labeled the AAP as a "dhokha dhadi" (deceitful) party, accusing its members of engaging in fraudulent activities and challenging Kejriwal to publicly address these allegations.
In response, Kejriwal has dismissed these accusations, attributing them to political maneuvering by the BJP. He has accused the BJP of attempting to undermine democratic processes, citing instances where the party allegedly sought to disenfranchise voters by submitting applications to the Election Commission to remove names from voter lists. Kejriwal claimed that a significant portion of these voters were AAP supporters, suggesting a deliberate effort to sway election outcomes.
As the election campaign intensifies, both parties continue to exchange allegations, each seeking to sway public opinion in their favor. The BJP's strategy appears focused on highlighting perceived administrative failures and instances of corruption within the AAP government, while the AAP counters by accusing the BJP of anti-democratic practices and attempting to destabilize its governance in Delhi.
The forthcoming Delhi Assembly elections are poised to be a critical juncture for both parties. The AAP, which secured a significant majority in the 2020 elections by winning 62 out of 70 seats, aims to retain its stronghold by emphasizing its governance model and public welfare schemes. Conversely, the BJP seeks to capitalize on alleged shortcomings of the AAP administration to make electoral gains in the capital.