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The Delhi political landscape is currently embroiled in a heated exchange of accusations between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), centering around allegations of bribery and the potential nomination of Pravesh Verma as the BJP's chief ministerial candidate for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Arvind Kejriwal, the AAP supremo, made a significant claim, asserting that the BJP is poised to announce Pravesh Verma as their chief ministerial candidate. This statement followed closely on the heels of Atishi, the Delhi CM, who earlier accused Verma of distributing money in the New Delhi constituency. Atishi's claim, made earlier in the day, detailed an alleged incident where Verma, during an official visit, was distributing money to constituents at his official residence. Atishi provided details such as the sums of money given – ₹1100 – and the manner of distribution, noting that women from various slums were summoned to receive the cash. This accusation is framed not merely as a violation of election conduct but also as a sign of widespread corruption, as she claimed that crores of rupees remain at Verma's residence. Atishi further called for immediate intervention from the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and Election Commission, urging an investigation and arrest.
Pravesh Verma, in response to these serious allegations, vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He explained that the money distributed was from his Rashtriya Swabhiman Sansthan, a charitable organization founded by his father twenty-five years ago. He argued that this money was intended to provide aid to impoverished women in the area and that it was fully accounted for. Verma's defense pointedly contrasted his actions with what he perceives as the AAP's alleged past distribution of liquor. This counter-accusation attempts to redirect the focus of criticism and raise concerns about the moral standing of AAP government. He highlighted the unmet needs of these women, claiming that the AAP government, despite its tenure, had failed to address their problems, implying a deficiency in their social welfare programs. He showcased his initiative as a form of immediate support for the underprivileged and highlighted the lack of pensions, ration cards, jobs, and medical facilities that these women face.
The accusations and counter-accusations have escalated rapidly, drawing in other prominent figures from both parties. Sanjay Singh, from AAP, echoed Atishi’s concerns, claiming that the distribution of money occurred openly under the watch of Election Commission officials. He reiterated the call for an investigation and seizure of Verma’s property to find any remaining cash. On the other side, BJP's Vijender Gupta, the Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, dismissed Kejriwal’s claims as the actions of a frustrated candidate facing certain defeat. Gupta challenged Kejriwal to file a formal complaint to the Election Commission, implying that the accusations are merely strategic maneuvers designed to damage BJP's prospects. The clash of accusations creates significant uncertainty in the upcoming Delhi election and places a spotlight on the issues of electoral integrity and social welfare. The claims regarding the BJP's alleged planning to declare Pravesh Verma as their CM candidate adds another layer of complexity to the already tense situation.
The central conflict revolves around the credibility of both parties' claims. The AAP alleges widespread bribery aimed at manipulating the electoral process, presenting evidence of alleged cash distribution. The BJP counters with the claim that the actions were charitable and done through a well-established institution, portraying itself as a champion for the underprivileged. The accusations made by both sides have raised questions about the integrity of the upcoming election and highlighted the significant socio-economic disparities within Delhi. It is now up to the investigating agencies to determine the truth behind the conflicting narratives. The outcome of this investigation will significantly influence public perception and shape the final electoral outcome. This incident showcases the highly charged political environment prevalent in Delhi in the lead-up to the crucial Assembly elections, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in political processes.
Source: Arvind Kejriwal's big claim: 'BJP is going to declare Pravesh Verma as its CM face'