In a statement issued on Sunday, BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri dismissed Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal’s claims that he would be the BJP's chief ministerial candidate for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. The former MP clarified that he is not in contention for the top post and accused Kejriwal of spreading baseless rumors to mislead the public.
Bidhuri Refutes AAP’s Allegations
Addressing the media, Bidhuri, who is contesting from Kalkaji against AAP's Atishi, said, “I am as dedicated to the people as I am to my party. Talks about the chief minister's role for me are totally baseless. I will continue to work timelessly as your servant.”
He highlighted his longstanding dedication to the BJP, stating that the party has entrusted him with significant responsibilities over the years, including terms as MP from 2014 to 2024 and as MLA from 2003 to 2013. "I am not a claimant for any post but am dedicated to serving the people," he reiterated.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Public Debate Challenge
At a press conference on Saturday, Arvind Kejriwal claimed that “reliable sources” indicated Bidhuri’s potential announcement as the BJP’s chief ministerial face. He challenged Bidhuri to a public debate, suggesting that this would allow the people of Delhi to evaluate who is better suited to lead.
Kejriwal also criticized the BJP's governance record, referring to alleged scams and infrastructure failures under their administration. "The people of Delhi deserve answers about the liquor scam, education scam, Sheeshmahal scam, and other issues plaguing the city," he said.
Bidhuri Responds to Kejriwal’s Claims
In response, Bidhuri dismissed Kejriwal’s remarks as “misleading propaganda.” He accused the AAP chief of conceding defeat ahead of the elections by projecting such narratives. "By naming me, Kejriwal has already accepted that the BJP will form the next government," Bidhuri said.
He further alleged that the people of Delhi are unhappy with Kejriwal's governance and are eager for change. "Residents are tired of broken roads, poor drinking water, and other failures under Kejriwal's rule," he said.
Controversial Remarks Add Fuel to the Fire
Bidhuri recently faced backlash for controversial comments about Atishi and Priyanka Gandhi. He expressed regret after an uproar, but the remarks drew widespread criticism from both AAP and Congress leaders. Atishi called out Bidhuri’s past behavior, questioning the BJP’s decision to field him as a leader.
Union Home Minister Backs BJP’s Strategy
Union Home Minister Amit Shah dismissed Kejriwal’s claims as baseless. "Can Kejriwal decide the BJP’s chief ministerial face? Lies, betrayal, and false promises are hallmarks of his politics," Shah said, accusing the AAP leader of manipulating public perception for political gains.
Delhi Assembly Elections: A Tight Race
The Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for February 5, will determine the future political landscape of the Capital. The AAP, which dominated the 2015 and 2020 elections, aims for another consecutive term. The BJP, which secured eight seats in the 2020 elections, is striving for a stronger foothold, while Congress continues its battle to regain relevance.
Conclusion
As the election date approaches, the political tussle between AAP and BJP intensifies. Arvind Kejriwal’s allegations and Ramesh Bidhuri’s responses have become focal points of the pre-election narrative. With both parties accusing each other of failures and controversies, Delhi voters will play the ultimate deciding role on February 5.