AAP unveils ambitious manifesto for Delhi elections, promises major reforms for middle-class families

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has unveiled its manifesto ahead of the upcoming Delhi assembly elections, emphasizing support for the middle class. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal presented the manifesto, outlining seven key demands directed at the central government in anticipation of the Union Budget.

AAP's Seven Key Demands

During a public meeting in New Delhi, Kejriwal stated, “We demand that the next Budget of the country be dedicated to the middle class. Today, I am making 7 demands to the central government.” The demands include:

1. Increase in Education Budget: A call to raise the education budget from 2% to 10%.
2. Subsidies for Higher Education: Proposals for scholarships and subsidies aimed at higher education.
3. Health Budget Enhancement: An increase in the health budget to 10% and removal of taxes on health insurance.
4. Income Tax Exemption: A request to raise the income tax exemption limit from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
5. GST Removal on Essentials: Elimination of GST on essential commodities.
6. Pension Schemes for Senior Citizens: Establishment of robust retirement plans and pension schemes for senior citizens, along with free medical services in all hospitals.
7. Rail Travel Concession: A proposal for a 50% concession in rail travel fares for senior citizens.

Kejriwal emphasized that these initiatives would significantly benefit the middle class and improve their quality of life.

Accusations Against BJP

In a concurrent press conference, AAP leaders accused BJP representatives, particularly Ramesh Bidhuri, of engaging in "hooliganism" against AAP workers. Atishi, a prominent AAP member, claimed that BJP supporters were creating a climate of fear in Kalkaji by threatening AAP activists and destroying campaign materials.Kejriwal supported Atishi’s statements, asserting that such violent tactics indicated BJP's desperation as they face potential defeat in the elections. “What Atishi said is not limited to just one assembly constituency. BJP has resorted to hooliganism,” he remarked.

Upcoming Election Context

As Delhi prepares for elections on February 5, with results set to be announced on February 8, tensions between AAP and BJP are escalating. This election is expected to feature a three-way contest among AAP, BJP, and Congress. Historically, Congress has struggled in recent years after dominating Delhi politics for 15 years.In the previous assembly elections in 2020, AAP achieved a significant victory by securing 62 out of 70 seats, while BJP managed only eight seats.