In a heated escalation of political rivalry, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit launched a scathing attack on Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal, claiming the latter is “unfit to hold office.” Dikshit pointed to Kejriwal’s bail conditions in the excise policy case, highlighting restrictions that bar Kejriwal from signing files or attending office.
The Congress has positioned Dikshit as Kejriwal’s direct opponent in the New Delhi Assembly constituency for the upcoming elections, reigniting the long-standing rivalry between the two parties in the national capital.
Bail Conditions Fuel Criticism
Dikshit criticized Kejriwal’s capacity to govern, citing the Supreme Court’s ruling that granted Kejriwal bail but limited his administrative authority. “The Supreme Court’s order makes it clear – Kejriwal cannot sign files or visit the Chief Minister’s office. This means that even if he wins, he will effectively serve as an MLA, not as a functioning Chief Minister,” Dikshit remarked during a campaign event.
The apex court’s September ruling, which temporarily freed Kejriwal amid his legal battle over the Delhi excise policy case, explicitly prevented him from engaging in governance, unless required for Lieutenant Governor (L-G) approval. This led to AAP’s senior leader Atishi being appointed acting Chief Minister to manage state affairs in Kejriwal’s absence.
A Direct Contest in New Delhi
The electoral clash between Sandeep Dikshit and Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi Assembly constituency sets the stage for a high-profile battle. Dikshit emphasized that voters need to prioritize candidates based on their role as legislators rather than envisioning Kejriwal as the next Chief Minister.
“People must understand that this election is about electing an MLA, not a Chief Minister. Given Kejriwal’s legal entanglements, his influence over governance is severely limited,” Dikshit told The Times of India.
Reviving the Legacy of Sheila Dikshit
Dikshit signaled his intent to draw on the legacy of his mother, the late Sheila Dikshit, whose three consecutive terms as Delhi’s Chief Minister saw significant infrastructural growth and development.
“The work done by my mother as CM speaks for itself. Her legacy of transforming Delhi will be central to my campaign. The Congress has a proven track record in governance, and we will remind voters of what was accomplished during her tenure,” Dikshit stated.
Kejriwal Under Fire
This latest development adds to the growing scrutiny over Kejriwal’s leadership, with opposition parties questioning AAP’s governance amid the excise policy controversy. Sandeep Dikshit further accused Kejriwal of failing to deliver on major electoral promises, signaling that his campaign will heavily focus on holding AAP accountable.
“Delhiites deserve clarity and results. Kejriwal made lofty promises but hasn’t fulfilled them. His tenure has been marred by controversies and legal battles. It’s time voters ask whether AAP is capable of delivering on its commitments,” Dikshit asserted.
Political Fallout
Kejriwal’s supporters argue that the restrictions imposed by the Supreme Court are temporary and should not reflect his overall capability. However, with the Delhi elections looming, the narrative pushed by Dikshit and the Congress could shape voter sentiment, especially in constituencies like New Delhi, where Kejriwal has a stronghold.
As the political contest heats up, both sides are expected to intensify their campaigns, making the New Delhi Assembly constituency a focal point in the broader Delhi elections.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
