Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Chief Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday accused the BJP of attempting to sway voters through the distribution of money and goods, urging the people of Delhi to resist these tactics and not let their votes be bought. He emphasized that the vote is more valuable than “diamonds” and should not be sold under any circumstances.
In a press conference, Kejriwal criticized the BJP, stating that the party has abandoned any semblance of respect for integrity. He remarked, “It seems like the ‘Gali-Galoch’ party has dropped their weapons now. They have no vision, no Chief Ministerial candidate, and have resorted to dishonesty by openly distributing money.”
Kejriwal further alleged that BJP leaders were keeping most of the funds meant for distribution to the public, claiming, “They sent Rs 10,000, but their leaders pocketed Rs 9,000 and only gave Rs 1,000 to the people. In areas where they didn’t distribute money, the people are angry.”
The AAP leader also highlighted that the BJP had recently started distributing gold chains and other items in select colonies. He demanded an explanation from BJP leaders about the whereabouts of the public’s money and materials like saris and blankets that were allegedly distributed. “The public is asking them where all these items have gone,” he added.
Kejriwal urged the people of Delhi not to vote for those who, in his words, have turned into “traitors” of the country. He said, “I appeal to the people of Delhi—take whatever they offer, but don’t let your vote be bought. Our vote is more precious than diamonds. Even if you don’t vote for AAP, do not vote for those who are distributing goods and money, as they are traitors.”
He also issued a warning that if any AAP candidate was caught distributing money or goods, voters should avoid voting for them. “We are not here to win or lose elections; we are here to change the country,” Kejriwal asserted.
Earlier, on January 9, the Election Commission of India directed the Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi to investigate a complaint filed by AAP regarding BJP candidate Parvesh Verma. AAP had accused Verma of violating the Model Code of Conduct by allegedly distributing money and holding health camps with giveaways, which AAP claimed were forms of corrupt practices.
Kejriwal reiterated this accusation, stating, “Parvesh Verma in the New Delhi seat is openly distributing money, organizing health camps, and announcing job fairs—these are all corrupt practices under the Election Commission’s rules. Verma should be barred from contesting the election.”
The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with the vote counting set for February 8.
