New Delhi, Feb 2 (PTI) – As the high-stakes Delhi Assembly elections draw closer, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday termed the Union Budget 2025 as the "most middle class friendly budget in India's history." Addressing a massive election rally in RK Puram, he highlighted the tax relief measures introduced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, asserting that never before have those earning up to ₹12 lakh annually received such significant benefits.
With just three days to go until the February 5 elections, Modi leveraged his popular poll slogan "Modi ki guarantee" to appeal to the middle-class electorate, emphasizing the government's commitment to their welfare.
BJP's Renewed Push to End 27-Year Hiatus in Delhi
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), out of power in Delhi for nearly three decades, is in a fierce electoral contest with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). In a massive show of strength, the BJP scheduled 80 rallies on Sunday to sway voters in the final leg of the campaign.The prime minister also invoked 'Basant Panchami', symbolizing new beginnings, and predicted a "new spring of development" in Delhi under a BJP-led government.
"With Basant Panchami, the weather starts changing. Three days later, on February 5, Delhi will witness the new 'Basant' of development as the BJP forms its government," Modi declared, energizing the crowd.
As he called out "Ab ki baar" (this time again) during his hour-long speech, the gathering responded with chants of "Modi Sarkar", reinforcing the party’s momentum.
Modi Takes Aim at AAP’s ‘False Promises’ and Alleged Corruption
In a scathing attack on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP government, Modi accused them of betraying Delhiites with "false promises and corruption." He alleged that AAP’s policies have forced factories to shut down and vowed to hold the party accountable for its governance failures."The AAP-da (AAP-led) government stands exposed before the people of Delhi. But they continue to seek votes on the same false promises. This time, the people of Delhi won’t be deceived," he said.
Modi further accused AAP of "spreading lies" to counter public anger, while pointing to a series of defections within the party, suggesting internal turmoil.
Modi’s ‘Guarantees’ vs. AAP’s Governance Record
Comparing his leadership to AAP’s governance, Modi emphasized his "Modi guarantees", vowing to provide a pro-poor, pro-middle-class, and development-oriented administration."An AAP-da government should not return to power even by mistake, or Delhi will lose another five years," he warned.
Highlighting his government's commitment to the four pillars of national progress—poor, farmers, youth, and women, Modi positioned the Union Budget as a tool to fulfill his pledges.
The prime minister also sought to reassure voters that no jhuggi (slum dwelling) would be demolished and no welfare scheme would be scrapped under a BJP-led administration.
Middle Class and Taxation: A Key Election Issue
Acknowledging the middle class as a crucial voter base, Modi contrasted the BJP's economic policies with those of previous Congress regimes, which he accused of burdening salaried individuals with excessive taxes."During Nehru's tenure, one had to pay 25% tax on ₹12 lakh earnings. Under Indira Gandhi, the burden was still substantial. But today, the BJP government has provided relief, empowering people instead of just filling its coffers," he said.
Focus on Women and Purvanchal Voters
Addressing the concerns of women voters, Modi reiterated a key promise from the BJP manifesto—a ₹2,500 direct benefit transfer for women by March 8, International Women's Day.He also reached out to Delhi’s large Purvanchali voter base, reminding them that he represents Varanasi, a heartland of Purvanchal, in Parliament. Modi further highlighted the NDA government’s efforts in Bihar’s development, citing several state-specific proposals in the Union Budget.
Confident of Victory, Modi Predicts BJP Government in Delhi
Exuding confidence in the BJP’s prospects, Modi made a bold declaration:"Mark my words—on February 8, BJP will form the government in Delhi. By March 8, women will start receiving ₹2,500 in their accounts."
Taking another swipe at Kejriwal, he remarked, "Those who live in ‘sheesh mahal’ (glass palaces) cannot understand the struggles of a poor family in a jhuggi or a middle-class family in a 2BHK flat."
With Delhi heading to the polls in just days, the battle lines are clearly drawn between the BJP and AAP, with both parties making a final push to win over voters. As Modi wraps up his campaign trail, the question remains: Will Delhi see a political shift after 27 years, or will AAP retain its stronghold?
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