Arvind Kejriwal, the former Chief Minister of Delhi and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo, created a political stir on Saturday by claiming that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has finalised its former MP Ramesh Bidhuri as the Chief Ministerial candidate for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections.
Kejriwal also challenged the BJP’s presumed CM face to a public debate, calling for transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Speaking at a press conference in Delhi, Kejriwal revealed that his sources indicated the BJP’s Central Election Committee (CEC) has decided on Bidhuri as their CM candidate.
He stated that an official announcement of Bidhuri’s candidature is expected shortly. Kejriwal criticised the BJP for delaying the announcement, suggesting it reflects their fear of defeat in the polls.
Kejriwal questioned why the BJP had not yet made its decision public, pointing out that he has always been AAP’s CM face and has openly led his party into elections.
He also issued a challenge to the BJP’s to-be CM candidate, urging him to participate in a public debate to share his vision for Delhi and explain his contributions to the capital over the last decade.
The AAP leader emphasised the importance of such a debate, arguing that voters deserve to know the plans and accomplishments of those vying to lead the city. He asked the BJP’s candidate to present a clear roadmap for Delhi’s development and to justify their leadership aspirations.
Kejriwal further accused the BJP of tampering with the electoral rolls, alleging that fake voter registrations were being added to the voters' list. He cited reports of suspicious spikes in voter registrations at certain residences, including those of BJP MPs and former MPs, as evidence of the party’s desperation.
He referred to revelations made by AAP MP Sanjay Singh, who earlier in the day accused BJP leaders, including former MP Parvesh Verma, of facilitating fraudulent voter registrations.
Singh highlighted irregularities, such as multiple voter applications from specific slum areas and shops, and claimed these were part of the BJP’s strategy to manipulate the electoral outcome.
Kejriwal raised concerns about the legitimacy of these registrations, questioning the origins of what he termed as “fictitious voters.” He called on authorities to investigate the matter to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
The upcoming Delhi Assembly elections are poised to be a heated contest between AAP and BJP.
AAP has already announced its candidates for all constituencies, showcasing its preparedness and confidence. In contrast, the BJP has so far declared the names of 29 candidates, with the remaining list expected to be released soon, according to sources.
Follow us
