Kejriwal vs BJP: Women’s Safety Takes Center Stage in Delhi

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] December 16 : Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal has accused the BJP-led Centre of failing to ensure women's safety in Delhi, especially with the growing number of assault cases.  

Addressing a ‘Mahila Adalat’ event, Kejriwal claimed that despite the Centre holding control over Delhi Police, the safety of women has not been prioritized. His statements come during rising concerns about the increase in crimes against women in the capital.

Kejriwal’s Criticism of BJP Government

Kejriwal expressed his dissatisfaction with the BJP’s handling of security, stating, “Ten years ago, you gave me the responsibility to improve schools, hospitals, and water supply in Delhi, and I have done my work.

But you gave the responsibility of security to BJP and Amit Shah, who has failed.” He also emphasized that he does not treat women as a “vote bank” and has taken several steps to enhance safety, including installing CCTV cameras and appointing bus marshals.

A Rising Crisis: Recent Cases of Rape and Assault

Kejriwal’s speech came against the backdrop of several disturbing cases of rape and assault, including the brutal gang rape that shocked the nation in 2012. More recently, the case of a 6-year-old girl who was sexually assaulted in Delhi has added to the growing concern.

The traumatic testimonies shared by survivors at the ‘Mahila Adalat’ event highlighted the urgency for stricter enforcement of laws and protection for women.

BJP’s Response and the Swati Maliwal Issue

The BJP quickly hit back at Kejriwal’s accusations, pointing out his failure to address a separate matter involving AAP. They reminded him of Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal’s complaint of alleged harassment by Kejriwal’s assistant, Bibhav Kumar.

BJP also criticized Kejriwal for hosting Akhilesh Yadav, whose father, Mulayam Singh Yadav, had previously made controversial statements defending offenders of sexual assault. They asked, “Does Kejriwal have the courage to ask Akhilesh Yadav to apologise to the country’s women for his father’s comments?”

The Larger Question: Is the Government Truly Failing?

With increasing cases of sexual violence, including the shocking assault on a young girl, the question arises: Is the government truly failing to protect women? The growing number of such crimes, despite the implementation of safety measures like CCTV cameras, indicates that more needs to be done.

While Kejriwal’s criticism highlights the lack of action from the Centre, the opposition’s accusations reveal a deeper political divide, leaving the real issue of women’s safety unanswered.

By Manasa Permulla