MCD polls: Delhi BJP focuses on implementing central schemes

NEW DELHI: After targeting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi for corruption and nepotism throughout its campaign, the Delhi BJP on Sunday rolled out its manifesto for the municipal polls due on April 23. The manifesto, or ‘Sankalp Patra’, promises to tackle local civic issues such as garbage disposal, mechanised cleaning of roads, and licences given to roadside vendors, but its main focus is on implementing central government schemes.

It also targets the AAP government for its “inefficiencies” and “unfulfilled promises”. BJP Delhi chief Manoj Tiwari said the manifesto is directed towards implementing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and central schemes at the municipal level. To begin with, the party is looking at digitising most municipal services to ensure transparency and convenience, Tiwari said while releasing the manifesto.

It is also looking at introducing the Deen Dayal Upadhyay ‘Thali’ that promises to provide a meal for Rs 10, a scheme started by Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Chouhan earlier this month.

“The AAP government stands accused of spending Rs 16,000 a plate on the government exchequer but we are committed to providing cheaper meals to citizens,” Tiwari alleged, targeting the Delhi government over reports of spending on party-related events and activities from the government coffers.

The Delhi government had initiated ‘Aam Aadmi canteen’ project providing low-cost meals earlier this year at Lok Nayak Hospital. With AAP promising to waive off property tax if voted to power, BJP declared that no new taxes will be announced under its rule. Tiwari said BJP will also look at providing funds to the municipal corporation directly from the Centre.