Delhi polls: Ahead of the Delhi assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expressed confidence in forming a stable government in the national capital, predicting it will secure 40-50 seats.
In an exclusive conversation with Patriot, Kailash Gahlot, the former Transport Minister of Delhi and BJP candidate from the Bijwasan Assembly constituency, emphasised the need for a unified government at the Centre and state to accelerate Delhi’s development.
EXCERPTS:
What is the BJP’s plan to address the bus shortage in Delhi?
It is crucial to maintain the number of buses in Delhi. However, many buses retire each month, which makes it challenging to manage the fleet effectively. By June or July 2025, all old low-floor buses will be phased out. If new buses are not added promptly, the fleet size will drop drastically. To prevent this, we need to ensure regular additions of new buses. It’s an ongoing process that requires careful planning to keep Delhi’s public transport system efficient.
Despite initiatives like the Green App, pollution remains a major issue. What more can be done?
Pollution is a serious challenge, not just for Delhi but for the entire country. Tackling it effectively requires cooperation between the state and central governments. We’ve promoted electric vehicles and improved public transport, but there are many other contributors to pollution.
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For instance, stubble burning in neighbouring states during winter adds to Delhi’s pollution. Farmers burn leftover crops, and the smoke drifts into the city. Similarly, poor families often burn wood to stay warm in winter, which increases air pollution. Dust from construction sites, roads, and dumping grounds is another major contributor. Garbage landfills also pose a problem—when fires break out, they release harmful gases that worsen air quality.
To combat pollution, we need a comprehensive approach that addresses all these factors. Both the government and citizens must work together to make Delhi’s air cleaner and safer.
The AAP’s women’s welfare scheme faced budget criticism. The BJP has proposed a similar initiative. What is your view on welfare schemes?
Welfare schemes have always been a part of governance. For example, the ration distribution programme provides food grains at subsidised rates and is the world’s largest subsidy initiative.
Subsidies are essential to support those in need. However, their implementation is critical. There must be no wastage or misuse of funds. Benefits should reach the genuinely needy. When executed properly, welfare schemes can transform lives and uplift communities.
If there’s a hung assembly, will the BJP consider an alliance with the Congress?
No, the BJP will not form an alliance with the Congress. We are confident of forming a stable government on our own. Our focus is on earning the people’s trust and securing a clear majority.
The AAP built its reputation on honesty and transparency. Has this been damaged by controversies like the “Sheesh Mahal” bungalow and the liquor policy scam?
Yes, the AAP’s image has taken a hit. When they first came to power, their leaders vowed to avoid luxuries like government bungalows. However, one leader now resides in a massive house created by merging three or four bungalows. Dubbed the ‘Sheesh Mahal,’ this extravagant home has disappointed many of their supporters.
Even loyal voters are now questioning the AAP’s values and honesty. Many of them are shifting their support to the BJP, feeling let down by the party’s broken promises.
How many seats do you expect the BJP to win?
We are confident of forming the government in Delhi this time. The BJP will win at least 40 seats, and the total could go up to 50. We have worked tirelessly, and we believe the people of Delhi will choose us for a stable and strong government.
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What is your message to the voters of Delhi?
You gave Congress 15 years and the AAP 10 years but didn’t see the development you hoped for. This time, I urge you to vote for the BJP. With a BJP government in Delhi, we can work closely with the Centre and Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to bring real development to the city.
The BJP can provide a stable and efficient government focused on solving problems and improving lives. Give us the chance to serve you, and together, we can make Delhi a better place to live.
