The political tussle between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) intensified on Tuesday ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections. BJP leaders took a swipe at AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, labeling him a “chunavi Hindu” (seasonal Hindu), while AAP leaders retaliated with sharp remarks against the BJP.
Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva accused Kejriwal of misinterpreting the Ramcharitmanas and disrespecting Sanatan Dharma. He further alleged that Kejriwal’s newfound interest in temples was driven purely by electoral motivations.
“The way Arvind Kejriwal has misinterpreted Shri Ramcharitmanas and insulted Sanatan Dharma is not new. These people are adharmi. Earlier, he opposed the Ram Temple, and now, as elections approach, he remembers temples,” Sachdeva told ANI.
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri echoed similar sentiments, questioning Kejriwal’s understanding of the Ramayana.
“I don’t think he understands the basics of the Ramayana. Instead of debating issues, they’re now targeting Sikhs. If you want to attack me, go ahead, but leave the Sikh community out of it,” Puri said in an interview.
Kejriwal faced criticism from BJP leaders for a comment he made during a rally in Vishwas Nagar, where he claimed that Ravana turned into a golden deer to abduct Sita. BJP leaders countered, stating that, according to the Ramayana, it was demon Marich who disguised himself as the golden deer.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari called Kejriwal a “chunavi Hindu,” accusing him of having superficial knowledge of the scriptures.
“Arvind Kejriwal is a ‘chunavi Hindu’ with limited understanding of the Ramayana. His attempt to portray himself as a devout Hindu has been exposed before the people of Delhi and the nation,” Bhandari said.
In response, Kejriwal accused the BJP of admiring Ravana and exhibiting a “demonic nature.”
“They’re protesting because I said Ravana turned into a golden deer. Now they claim it was Marich, not Ravana. Their outrage shows their love for Ravana. They have a demonic mindset and will exploit the poor if they come to power,” Kejriwal retorted.
AAP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia also hit out at the BJP, sarcastically suggesting the party’s affinity for Ravana.
“The way the BJP is defending Ravana, it seems like they are his descendants,” Sisodia said.
Meanwhile, the Delhi BJP released the second part of its election manifesto, focusing on welfare schemes. The party promised life insurance of up to ₹10 lakh for domestic workers and drivers, along with accident insurance. Financial support of ₹15,000 was pledged for students preparing for competitive exams, including reimbursements for travel and application fees.
Addressing the state of governance in Delhi, Hardeep Singh Puri claimed there was strong anti-incumbency sentiment against AAP.
“Kejriwal is under immense pressure. Delhi is grappling with poor air quality and polluted rivers, yet AAP has failed to act. If they don’t take responsibility, the BJP will step in to clean up the mess,” Puri added.
As the election date nears, the battle for Delhi continues to heat up, with both parties trading sharp barbs to sway voters.