New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – As the Delhi Assembly elections approach, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Satyendar Jain has urged voters to decide whether they want a governance model akin to developed nations like Sweden and France or risk following what he described as the "failed states" of Pakistan and Uganda.
In an exclusive interview with PTI, Jain defended AAP’s welfare-oriented policies, emphasizing that free healthcare, education, and essential utilities are crucial for a nation’s progress. "If providing free welfare schemes is wrong, then developed countries like Sweden, France, and Denmark are also wrong. They have invested taxpayers' money in public welfare for decades, just like we are doing," Jain asserted.
Criticism of Traditional Political Approach
Jain, who is contesting from Shakur Basti, criticized the governance of past decades, stating that successive governments had failed to prioritize public welfare. "For 78 years, governments have not spent enough on public welfare. What has that achieved? For the first time, we are putting people first," he said.Drawing a comparison between AAP’s governance model and global examples, Jain questioned: "The real issue is—do we follow the path of developed nations or failed models like Uganda and Pakistan?"
Social Welfare: Investment or Freebies?
Jain, a key architect of AAP’s flagship programs like free electricity and mohalla clinics, argued that welfare spending should be seen as an investment, not an expense. "BJP and others call it ‘freebies,’ but what about Scandinavian countries that provide free healthcare and education? Should we call them failures too?" he asked.Having represented Shakur Basti since 2013, Jain highlighted his developmental contributions, including road construction, sewer lines, gyms, playgrounds, and street lighting. "In 40 years, I am the first to bring real development and install streetlights in the societies," he stated.
Attack on BJP’s Governance and Election Strategy
Taking a sharp dig at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jain claimed that while AAP seeks votes based on development, the ruling party at the Centre resorts to "hooliganism." "They campaign on emotional issues like attacking Pakistan. But where is the focus on governance?" he questioned.He also blamed the BJP for developmental lapses in his constituency, arguing that despite the local MP and councillors being from the saffron party, they had failed to deliver. "All councillors in my constituency belong to the BJP, and the MP is from their party too. Their work remains incomplete," he alleged.
Mocking the BJP’s manifesto, which promises welfare schemes similar to AAP’s, Jain remarked, "It took them 10 years to realize the Kejriwal model benefits people. But voters will always choose the original over a copy."
Jibe at BJP’s Candidate from Shakur Basti
Jain also took a swipe at his BJP rival, Karnail Singh, stating, "BJP has fielded a candidate who isn’t from Shakur Basti, isn’t from Delhi, and isn’t even from India. Their candidate is a migratory bird from America. Will people travel to America for their work if he wins?"The Congress has nominated Satish Luthra to challenge Jain in the constituency.
Kejriwal’s Leadership and Election Outlook
On opposition claims that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal cannot serve due to his legal issues, Jain dismissed the concerns. "The case will go on for 20 more years. Does that mean he should stay out of politics for two decades? That’s not democracy—that’s a strategy to eliminate political opponents," he argued.With voting set for February 5 and results to be announced on February 8, the Delhi Assembly elections are shaping up to be a fierce contest. While AAP had secured 67 out of 70 seats in 2015 and retained 62 in 2020, this election will determine whether the party continues its dominance, the BJP stages a comeback, or the Congress manages a resurgence.
With tensions rising and all parties stepping up their campaigns, Delhi’s electoral battle promises to be one of the most gripping in recent years.
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