Delhi Political Tensions: BJP Criticizes AAP's New Honorarium Scheme

Delhi BJP president Virendraa Sachdeva criticizes AAP's 'Pujari, Granthi Samman Yojana', labeling Kejriwal as a desperate leader making populist announcements ahead of 2025 elections. The scheme promises monthly honorariums of ₹18,000 for temple priests and gurudwara granthis, sparking political controversy.

Amid escalating political tensions in Delhi, BJP president Virendraa Sachdeva launched a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government following its announcement of the 'Pujari, Granthi Samman Yojana'. The scheme, introduced by AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, proposes an honorarium of ₹18,000 per month for temple priests and gurudwara granthis as preparation for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.

In a charged press conference, Sachdeva alleged that the AAP government is making 'populist announcements' as a means to cling to power, suggesting that the ruling party is desperately recalling 'Lord Ram' in light of impending electoral defeat. He accused Kejriwal of responding to legal pressures by the Delhi High Court regarding the salaries of religious leaders, particularly targeting the ongoing controversy surrounding payments to Maulvis.

Highlighting issues of unfulfilled promises and failed developments, Sachdeva emphasized public discontent, citing concerns over waterlogging, electrocutions during monsoons, and the 'Sheesh Mahal' construction. He questioned Kejriwal's promises, especially in light of the 'Mahila Samman Scheme', challenging whether similar provisions exist in Punjab. Kejriwal announced that the new scheme would be implemented if the AAP retains power in upcoming polls.

(With inputs from agencies.)