22-Jan-2025, 02:14 PM
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has accused BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri of engaging in “hooliganism” against members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) during the ongoing election campaign for the Kalkaji Assembly constituency. In a formal complaint to the Returning Officer, Atishi alleged that her party workers faced intimidation and threats from Bidhuri’s supporters, including his nephew. She specifically mentioned that AAP members were told to “sit at home” or risk having their “arms and legs broken” if they continued their campaigning efforts.
Atishi’s letter detailed several incidents where AAP workers were verbally abused and physically threatened. She named three individuals, claiming they were associated with the BJP, who allegedly assaulted AAP member Sanjay Gupta. According to her, this pattern of aggression is not new; she referenced a prior incident where an AAP worker was slapped while campaigning door-to-door just days earlier.
In response to these allegations, BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor dismissed Atishi’s claims, suggesting that both she and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal are fabricating stories of violence out of fear of defeat in the upcoming elections. Kapoor asserted that instead of focusing on their campaign, AAP leaders are attempting to blame the BJP for their anticipated failure at the polls.
The tensions between AAP and BJP have escalated further with Bidhuri’s controversial remarks about Atishi, where he likened her to a deer wandering aimlessly during the election season. This comment drew sharp criticism from AAP, which accused him of displaying an anti-women mindset. The party’s official statement condemned Bidhuri’s language and called it reflective of the broader attitudes within the BJP towards women.
This incident is part of a larger narrative as both parties gear up for the Delhi Assembly elections scheduled for February 5, 2025, with vote counting set for February 8. The political atmosphere is charged, with accusations flying between parties as they vie for control in a crucial electoral battle.
As Atishi continues her campaign amidst these challenges, she emphasizes her commitment to addressing issues affecting Delhi residents while highlighting what she describes as the BJP’s intimidation tactics. The unfolding events are indicative of the heightened tensions and competitive nature of the upcoming elections in Delhi.
