In the last two assembly elections of Delhi, Congress could not even open its account, so this time a lot is at stake for the party. The party first announced strong candidates on all seats and then attracted people’s attention through its guarantee schemes. Delhi Congress President Devendra Yadav, who is leading the party, is also contesting from Badli seat. On Saturday, he had a long conversation with ‘Hindustan’ chief correspondent Sanjay Kushwaha about the election prospects, strategies and expectations of the party. Here are the highlights of his statement:
● Not even a year has passed since he assumed the post of Delhi Congress President. This is the second election before you. How do you see this challenge?
- At the time of Lok Sabha elections, the party had given the responsibility in a special situation, when it was also in charge of Punjab. At that time the candidates were already decided, so they could not do much. Still, I made better use of my time. Now the organization has been strengthened for the assembly elections and our reach has increased to the people.
● There was an alliance with AAP in the Lok Sabha elections. Now you are standing against the same?
- We should have fought the Lok Sabha elections on our own. After that, after the results came, we decided to contest the elections alone. After separating from the alliance, we are now in a stronger position. If we had stayed with Aam Aadmi Party, our situation would not have been visible anywhere at this time.
● What survey has the Congress Party conducted regarding this election?
- The party is continuously conducting surveys. The party has taken steps based on the results of these surveys. The survey was conducted even before the announcement of the candidates, due to which we are in a better position than before.
● BJP and AAP are claiming that the contest is between them and Congress is out of the contest?
- The public will decide who is in the contest. People are upset with the way these two parties have behaved with the people of Delhi. Now people have decided that they will now trust only those who built Delhi first. People’s hopes are linked to Congress.
● You yourself are contesting elections from Badli Assembly. What does the situation look like here?
- Badli assembly is my home. I have always been loved here. Even though there were big storms in the last two elections, the people of Badli gave me their support. Earlier, while being an MLA, I have done many development works here.
● What is your opinion on the emphasis being given to free schemes in this election?
- It is the responsibility of the government to fulfill social responsibility. Inflation and unemployment have increased in the last ten years. It has become difficult for women to run the kitchen. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure that the kitchens run. Keeping this in mind, Congress has promised to give Rs 2500 to women and has also planned to give cylinders and ration kits for Rs 500. 300 units of free electricity will also be given.
Devendra Yadav said, “BJP is not able to come out of the politics of religion. Inflation and unemployment increased during his rule. At the same time, half of the leadership of the Aam Aadmi Party, which came to power on the slogan of Jan Lokpal and corruption, has gone to jail. Roads are jammed, there is garbage and filth in the streets, pollution is at its peak.”
intentionally distracting
Delhi Congress has reacted sharply to allegations of attack between AAP and BJP workers. The party said that in their hunger for power, both the parties are now going beyond abusing and doing shameful acts like car ramming and stone pelting. This is part of a well-planned conspiracy.
