AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal led a massive padyatra in Kalkaji, today, addressing the growing concerns of lawlessness in Delhi. Speaking to a sea of supporters who filled the streets with slogans and flags, Arvind Kejriwal launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Central Government and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, holding them responsible for Delhi’s deteriorating law and order situation.
“The responsibility for Delhi’s safety lies with Amit Shah, but he has thrown this city into doom,” Arvind Kejriwal said, urging Amit Shah to wake up and take action. He questioned his apathy, asking, “Are we committing a sin by asking for safety for our families?”
The padyatra saw women of all ages coming out in large numbers to greet Arvind Kejriwal, blessing him with tilak, shawls, and heartfelt wishes for his continued leadership. Their overwhelming support underscored the people’s trust in his vision and their hope for his return as Chief Minister to restore safety and dignity to Delhi. Delhi Chief Minister & Local MLA Atishi was also present alongside the AAP Convenor on the occasion.
Referring to alarming incidents in Tilak Nagar, Arvind Kejriwal recounted how two men on a motorcycle had opened fire at the Singla Sweets shop. “Just a few days later, the shop owner received a call demanding ₹2 crore, with threats to harm his family if the amount was not paid,” he said, underscoring the audacity of such criminals. He also highlighted a subsequent attack at a car showroom in the same market, where ₹5 crore were demanded, emphasizing the deteriorating law and order situation in Delhi.
He highlighted the grim picture of the city, stating that citizens today feel unsafe even carrying mobile phones in public. “It has become difficult for mothers and sisters to step out of their homes,” he said, urging the audience to consider how the safety landscape has regressed over the years.
Arvind Kejriwal also used the opportunity to remind the public of his government’s achievements in other areas. “Ten years ago, you trusted me and made me Chief Minister. You asked me to fix schools, and today, children from all walks of life—children of rickshaw pullers, laborers, vegetable vendors—are becoming doctors and engineers,” he stated with pride.
Speaking about electricity, he reminded people of the era of long power cuts during the Congress government. “Now, there are no power cuts like the Congress-era, and electricity bills are minimal. Raise your hands if you’ve ever received a zero electricity bill,” he asked, receiving overwhelming support from the crowd. He added that even if there’s someone who doesn’t, they know that power is very cheap in Delhi. “Ask those in BJP-ruled states, they’ll tell you how they pay thousands for electricity,” he added.
On healthcare, Arvind Kejriwal noted how the AAP government had improved public hospitals, opened Mohalla Clinics across Delhi, and made all treatments free. “We have ensured quality healthcare for everyone,” he added.
However, he highlighted that safety and law enforcement remain the BJP-ruled Central Government’s responsibility, as the Delhi Police does not report to the state government. “When I was Chief Minister, and now with Atishi Ji as CM too, the Delhi Police has always been under the Home Minister, Amit Shah, and the BJP,” Arvind Kejriwal pointed out, questioning the lack of accountability. “The situation in Delhi has worsened dramatically. I want to say to them—do something! We are not asking for much; we are simply asking for safety. If people can’t even ask for the safety of their families and children, what else should they demand? The BJP was given one responsibility: ensuring safety. And they failed at even that. They have ruined Delhi completely.”
He cited a recent murder in Panchsheel Park, one of Delhi’s most affluent neighborhoods, where a 64-year-old man was stabbed to death. “If such crimes can happen in the wealthiest areas, how can ordinary citizens feel safe?” he asked.
Addressing another critical issue, Arvind Kejriwal raised concerns about drug trafficking in areas like Govindpuri. He alleged collusion between the BJP-ruled police and criminals, stating, “Without their involvement, how else could drugs be sold so openly in Delhi? Instead of providing jobs, our children are being pushed into drug abuse and trafficking.”
Calling for collective action, Arvind Kejriwal urged Delhiites to unite and demand accountability. “Safety must come first. If we don’t ask for the safety of our families and children, what else can we ask for?” he questioned. He assured the audience of his commitment to ensuring a secure Delhi, saying, “Together, we can make Delhi safe.”
In conclusion, Arvind Kejriwal shared a hopeful note, announcing plans for a welfare scheme aimed at women. “I see many sisters here today, and I promise we will do something significant very soon for you. We will deposit one thousand rupees in your accounts every month very soon.” he said.
While, CM Atishi stated, “Before Arvind Kejriwal became Chief Minister, governments would come and go, but the struggles of the common man remained unchanged. People faced immense challenges just to make ends meet, raise their children, and manage their household expenses. A single illness in the family often meant mortgaging their land, home, or even selling jewelry to afford treatment, but now healthcare, education, electricity, water everything is free.”
She added, “Under Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership, Delhi has seen unprecedented change. Families now have access to 24×7 electricity, often with zero bills. The water crisis, which once saw people lining up behind water tankers in neighborhoods like Govindpuri, is now a thing of the past as every household receives piped water. AAP government is a symbol of relief and empowerment for the people of Delhi. To those who’ve received erroneous water bills, Arvind Kejriwal has promised to waive off inflated water bills, ensuring that no one has to struggle for basic necessities. The Aam Aadmi Party is committed to building on this progress and continuing to transform lives in Delhi.”