The BJP’s anti-Purvanchal stance has once again been exposed to the public. For the last eight years, Purvanchal residents have celebrated Chhath with great devotion and joy in Satpula Park in Chirag Delhi. However, this year, the DDA, under the BJP-controlled central government, has halted the construction of the Chhath Ghat in the very same park. Despite Delhi Government securing all necessary permissions, the DDA has stopped the ongoing construction. Senior AAP leader and Cabinet Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, along with local councilors, staged a protest against BJP inhumane action, demanding the restoration of the right of the locals to celebrate Chhath there.
Saurabh Bharadwaj, while speaking to the media, highlighted that Chhath has been celebrated at the site for the last eight years and that it is officially listed for Chhath Puja by the Delhi Government. Despite full adherence to norms and approvals, the BJP & DDA locked the park gates and deployed heavy police force to prevent the Ghat construction.
He also shared that Satpula Park has had a common pathway for around 300 years, frequently used by residents of Chirag Delhi village. Residents testify to its historical significance and its use for Chhath Puja for the past eight years. BJP, however, ordered the park gates locked to prevent Purvanchalis from celebrating their festival here this year. Saurabh Bhardwaj reminded everyone of a similar incident in 2019 when BJP attempted to block Chhath Ghat preparations but eventually gave in under public pressure, allowing the celebrations to proceed.
In a statement, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi condemned this action as inhumane, noting that the BJP’s attempt to halt an established Chhath Ghat site is highly deplorable. She emphasized that India’s Constitution allows everyone to celebrate their beliefs, and BJP’s interference infringes upon this right. Once again, BJP’s anti-Purvanchal face is exposed to the public, she stated.
Reacting to the incident, AAP MP Sanjay Singh pointed out that this isn’t the first time BJP has mocked Purvanchal traditions. Similar incidents have occurred in the past where BJP leaders disrespected Purvanchal communities. Sanjay Singh argued that BJP pretends to stand for Hindu interests but is, in reality, anti-poor, anti-Dalit, and anti-Purvanchal.
Saurabh Bhardwaj further remarked that this latest act of stopping the Chhath Ghat construction in Satpula Park confirms BJP’s contempt for the people of Purvanchal and its intention to prevent them from celebrating their festival in Delhi.
