– Abdul Bari Masoud
New Delhi: A heated exchange continues between AAP and BJP ahead of Delhi Assembly elections, with AAP intensifying its attack over BJP’s unclear Chief Ministerial candidate. Reports suggest that BJP has floated the name of Ramesh Bidhuri for the post, a controversial figure known for using abusive language against a fellow MP in Parliament and directing derogatory remarks at Delhi Chief Minister Atishi.
The proposal to consider Bidhuri as BJP’s CM candidate reportedly triggered internal strife within the party’s Delhi ranks. This development provided an opportunity for AAP’s senior leader and Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjay Singh, to criticise the BJP’s inability to present a clear leader.
Singh pointed out that AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal had previously challenged Ramesh Bidhuri to a public debate on his vision for Delhi. Singh alleged that Bidhuri has since backed out, leaving BJP without a definitive leader for the elections.
“Ramesh Bidhuri is regarded as a strong contender for Chief Ministerial post within the BJP,” Singh remarked. “He has all the qualifications the party seems to prioritise. However, after reports emerged about his candidacy, infighting erupted within BJP ranks. Kejriwal’s press conference addressing this issue intensified the internal discord.”
Singh described the internal tussle, noting, “BJP leaders began vying for the position. Parvesh Verma asserted, ‘I am also here,’ while others echoed similar claims. This ‘I am also here’ competition has led to chaos. Now we hear that even Bidhuri is distancing himself from the candidacy, saying, ‘No, I am not the candidate.’”
Criticising the BJP’s indecision, Singh questioned, “Where is your candidate? The BJP appears to be heading into the elections like a wedding procession without a groom. Without a clear CM face, what message are they sending to the people of Delhi?”
Singh warned of the implications, saying, “This is a precarious situation. Elections are imminent, but the people of Delhi still have no clarity on BJP’s leadership or plans for the city. Who is their candidate, and what is their vision for Delhi?”
Emphasising the need for transparency, Singh demanded, “The BJP must reveal their ‘groom’ – their Chief Ministerial face. If Ramesh Bidhuri is not the candidate, then who is? The people of Delhi and the nation deserve answers.”
Singh also announced an AAP event at 4 PM to further expose what he described as BJP’s disarray on this issue.
