NEW DELHI: Leader of Opposition Atishi on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Delhi government, questioning the delay in implementing its poll commitment to provide ₹2,500 per month to women in the national capital.
Addressing a press conference ahead of a one-day session of the Delhi Assembly, Atishi said the promise made before the January 2025 elections remains unfulfilled even after more than a year. She pointed out that the scheme, announced under the banner of “Modi Ki Guarantee” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was expected to begin disbursal from March 8, 2025.
“Two deadlines have already passed March 8, 2025, and March 8, 2026. Yet, not a single rupee has reached the women of Delhi. Forget ₹2,500, not even 25 paise has been credited,” she said, intensifying the opposition’s criticism.
Questions Over Delivery and Accountability
The AAP leader demanded clarity from the ruling administration on the timeline for fulfilling the commitment. She argued that the delay undermines trust in electoral promises and raises concerns about accountability.
Atishi also targeted Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accusing her of making similar assurances in other states while failing to deliver in the capital. “When promises made to Delhi’s women remain unmet, how can new assurances be trusted elsewhere?” she asked.
Concerns Beyond Financial Aid
In addition to the monetary scheme, the opposition flagged issues related to public services. Atishi alleged that women are now facing difficulties accessing subsidised transport benefits, including long queues for Pink Cards in Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses.
She further claimed that access to free healthcare services has become more challenging, particularly at Mohalla Clinics, which were earlier highlighted as a key welfare initiative.
Political Tensions in the Assembly
Burari MLA Sanjeev Jha also criticised the BJP, accusing it of using the Delhi Assembly for “petty politics” instead of addressing pressing public concerns. He emphasised that true empowerment of women would only come through the delivery of promised benefits.
“The government must honour its commitment and ensure that women receive the ₹2,500 assistance without further delay,” Jha said.
Row Over MPs’ Merger
Separately, Atishi raised objections to a recent notification by the Rajya Sabha Secretariat accepting the merger of seven AAP MPs with the BJP. She termed the move “unlawful and unconstitutional,” arguing that such mergers are not permitted under the anti-defection provisions of the Constitution.
The developments have added to the ongoing political friction between the ruling party and the opposition, with the ₹2,500 women’s promise in Delhi emerging as a central issue in the debate over governance and credibility.