Parvesh Verma Targets AAP Over Housing Promises
BJP leader Parvesh Verma has accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of failing to fulfill its promise of providing permanent homes to slum dwellers. He claimed that despite collecting large amounts of money from the residents under a housing scheme, the Kejriwal-led government has not delivered on its commitments.
Verma, who is contesting against AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi constituency for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, launched a scathing attack on the former chief minister.
“AAP has made a mockery of the system. They have repeatedly lied to and misled the people of Delhi, especially the poor living in slums,” Verma said, according to PTI.
Verma’s Allegations Against AAP
Verma alleged that the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) collected amounts ranging from ₹70,000 to ₹1.5 lakh from slum dwellers in 2013, promising them permanent housing. However, 12 years later, those families are still waiting for their homes.
“The housing scheme was initiated by the Sheila Dikshit-led Congress government, but Kejriwal stalled the process after coming to power,” Verma claimed.
He also alleged that over 8,000 homes are fully constructed in Delhi, but instead of handing them over to slum dwellers, Kejriwal focused on renovating his official residence. The BJP has criticized the renovation, dubbing it “Sheesh Mahal” for the lavish spending involved.
Demolition Drives and RTI Documents
Verma further alleged that several slums in areas like Silver Oak Park, Ramesh Nagar, and Karol Bagh were demolished under AAP’s watch, rendering many families homeless. He presented documents obtained through RTI applications to support his claims.
According to Verma, the documents show that while the government took money from slum dwellers under the housing scheme, the promised flats were never delivered.
“If Kejriwal cannot keep his promises, he should not contest this election,” Verma said, expressing confidence in the BJP’s chances in the upcoming polls.
AAP’s Response: Blame Game Continues
Responding to the allegations, AAP accused the BJP of indulging in “jhuggi tourism” during elections. The party stated that while BJP leaders visit slums for photo opportunities, they fail to address the real issues.
AAP claimed that under Kejriwal’s leadership, efforts were made to improve living conditions for slum dwellers by laying sewer lines, providing water, and ensuring electricity in unauthorized colonies.
“The BJP must answer: ‘Jahan Jhuggi, Wahan Kiske Makaan?’ Will there be homes for the poor or will the land be given to their wealthy friends?” AAP questioned.
The party also accused the BJP of planning demolition drives in areas like Shakur Basti’s Railway Jhuggi Camp, a site recently visited by Kejriwal.
Political Clash Intensifies Ahead of Delhi Elections
The war of words between BJP and AAP is heating up ahead of the February 5 Delhi Assembly elections. With slum dwellers being a key vote bank, both parties are making efforts to win their support.
Here’s a quick breakdown of Parvesh Verma’s allegations:
| Key Allegations | Details |
|---|---|
| Unfulfilled Housing Promises | DUSIB collected ₹70,000 to ₹1.5 lakh from slum dwellers but didn’t deliver homes. |
| Demolition of Slums | Slums in Silver Oak Park, Ramesh Nagar, and Karol Bagh were demolished under AAP. |
| Renovation of Kejriwal’s Residence | Verma accused Kejriwal of prioritizing his residence renovation over slum housing. |
| RTI Documents | Verma presented RTI documents showing homes were never allocated despite payments. |
As the election battle intensifies, housing for slum dwellers remains a key issue in Delhi politics.
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