New Delhi: Ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, political parties are focusing heavily on "freebies" to woo voters. AAP, Congress, and BJP have each announced schemes targeting women, senior citizens, and households, offering financial assistance, free electricity, and healthcare initiatives.

AAP's free schemes

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal has promised financial aid for hiring security guards and continues to champion free services, including electricity, water, and public transport for women. The new Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana promises Rs 2,100 monthly for women, while the Sanjeevani Yojana ensures free healthcare for senior citizens.

Congress and BJP respond with competing promises  

Congress has introduced the 'Pyaari Didi Yojana,' offering Rs 2,500 monthly for women, and the 'Jeevan Raksha Yojana,' providing insurance coverage up to Rs 25 lakh. BJP, expected to release its manifesto soon, has hinted at similar offers, including free electricity and allowances for women. PM Narendra Modi reassured voters that existing welfare schemes would remain intact under BJP rule.

Critical issues ignored amid freebie focus

While freebies dominate the conversation, Delhi's pressing issues like air pollution, water shortages, poor infrastructure, and rising crimes are being sidelined. Severe pollution levels, pothole-related accidents, and law and order concerns remain unaddressed by political campaigns.

Delhi's AQI crossed 490 in November last year, severely affecting residents' health. Toxic air, ammonia-laden water from the Yamuna, and inadequate water treatment facilities have left citizens grappling with health crises.

Flooding, pothole-related accidents, and open sewers have caused fatalities, including the drowning of three UPSC aspirants in Rajinder Nagar due to poor drainage. Residents demand urgent action on basic amenities.

Shootouts linked to gang activities and rising crimes against women are significant concerns. Many residents feel these issues are being neglected amidst the freebie narrative.

Criticism of freebie culture

Bhartiya Liberal Party president Munish Kumar Raizada criticised AAP's governance, stating, "Kejriwal is an utter failure... He has encouraged the culture of freebies while paralysing governance and policy-making." Bahujan Samaj Party's Nitin Singh echoed similar sentiments, calling the promises "fake commitments" to divert attention from Delhi's systemic issues.

The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with results to be announced on February 8. As parties continue to battle over freebies, voters weigh their options amidst unaddressed core issues.

PTI