The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is intensifying its campaign for the upcoming Delhi elections, presenting a manifesto that blends voter-friendly policies with promises of infrastructural transformation. The manifesto, titled Kejriwal's Guarantee, is designed to reinforce the party's track record of governance while introducing innovative measures aimed at addressing the evolving needs of Delhi’s citizens. This strategy is seen as an answer to the BJP’s Modi ki Guarantee narrative used in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections but customized to the specific challenges of urban governance in Delhi.
At the heart of AAP’s campaign is the continuation and expansion of its hallmark freebies, which have become a defining feature of its governance model. The manifesto will reiterate the party's commitment to schemes like free electricity, water, healthcare, education, pilgrimage tours (tirth yatra), and free bus rides for women. These initiatives have not only bolstered AAP’s popularity but also solidified its image as a government that prioritizes public welfare.
In addition to these existing programs, AAP is unveiling new initiatives to strengthen its appeal to various voter demographics. The Mahila Samman Yojana promises to increase the monthly allowance for women who are non-income taxpayers from ₹1,000 to ₹2,100, providing much-needed financial support to a significant section of the electorate. This scheme is expected to resonate strongly with women voters, a key constituency for the party.
For senior citizens, the Sanjeevani Yojana pledges free healthcare for residents over 60 years old. This initiative underscores AAP’s focus on addressing the healthcare needs of Delhi’s aging population, further enhancing its pro-welfare credentials.
Recognizing the influential role of religious leaders in community building, AAP has announced the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana. Under this scheme, priests and granthis serving in temples and gurdwaras will receive an honorarium of ₹18,000 per month. This initiative not only acknowledges their contributions but also aims to secure the support of religious communities.
The party is also focusing on its longstanding allies, such as autorickshaw drivers, who have been instrumental in its electoral successes since its debut in 2013. AAP has promised a comprehensive social welfare package for this group, including life and accident insurance coverage worth ₹15 lakh, a ₹2,500 uniform allowance disbursed twice a year, and financial assistance of ₹1 lakh for their daughters' weddings. These measures aim to address the financial and social insecurities faced by this critical voter base.
Infrastructure development is another significant focus of the manifesto. AAP plans to address water-related grievances by waiving erroneous water bills issued by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and ensuring clean drinking water for all households. Additionally, the party is expected to outline major infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing Delhi’s urban landscape, improving connectivity, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
To address growing safety concerns, AAP has proposed funding for private security guards to be hired by Residents' Welfare Associations (RWAs). The allocation of security personnel will depend on the number of families in each colony, aiming to create safer neighborhoods and a greater sense of security for residents.
The manifesto reflects AAP’s ability to adapt its governance model to changing times while retaining its core focus on welfare and inclusivity. The party is banking on its well-established connection with voters, its track record in delivering social benefits, and its commitment to addressing infrastructure and safety challenges to secure a third consecutive term in Delhi.
By addressing the needs of diverse voter groups—from women and senior citizens to autorickshaw drivers and religious leaders—the manifesto demonstrates AAP’s comprehensive approach to governance. It also seeks to counter criticism by emphasizing the party’s ability to combine welfare initiatives with sustainable development, positioning itself as the most viable choice for Delhi’s electorate ahead of the February 5 polls.
