Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case. Kejriwal is expected to appear as a witness in the case in which former deputy CM Manish Sisodia has already been jailed. With a faction of the party fearing that Kejriwal may also be jailed, some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders met Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for an emergency meeting.&nbsp;

According to multiple reports seniors leaders such as Gopal Rai, Pankaj Gupta and other congregated at Mann's Kaurthala House in New Delhi to chart a future course of action.

The meeting was necessitated after party leaders including&nbsp;Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Atishi, Kailash Gahlot and Saurabh Bharadwaj were rounded up for protesting in front of the CBI office and detained to Najafgarh police station.&nbsp;

"More than 1500 people protesting in support of Arvind Kejriwal have been arrested by the police. Out of which 1379 people have been kept in different police stations and others are being rotated in buses," said AAP's Gopal Rai.&nbsp;

Kejriwal released a video message, prior to heading to the CBI office where he insinuated that CBI officers might dispatch him to jail.&nbsp;

“They (CBI) have called me today and I will definitely go. They are very powerful, they can send anyone to jail," said Kejriwal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-deputy-chief-minister-manish-sisodia-arrested-after-8-hour-grilling-566157">WATCH |&nbsp;Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia arrested after 8-hour grilling</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-deputy-chief-minister-manish-sisodia-arrested-after-8-hour-grilling-566157/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, senior AAP leader Atishi said the entire country was standing with Kejriwal as CBI continued to hound&nbsp;him.&nbsp;

"Arvind Kejriwal has been called for questioning by CBI. They say that it is a scam of thousands of crores but till now they have not been able to prove that even a single rupee was embezzled. The entire country is with Arvind Kejriwal," she said.&nbsp;

What is the excise policy scam?

The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy will help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and sale of spurious liquor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-politician-manish-sisodia-arrested-by-indias-top-investigation-body-in-liquor-policy-row-566115" target="_blank">Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case</a>

However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funneling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year.&nbsp;

It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of pandemic to create illegal channels of funding.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case.

Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case. Kejriwal is expected to appear as a witness in the case in which former deputy CM Manish Sisodia has already been jailed. With a faction of the party fearing that Kejriwal may also be jailed, some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders met Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for an emergency meeting. According to multiple reports seniors leaders such as Gopal Rai, Pankaj Gupta and other congregated at Mann's Kaurthala House in New Delhi to chart a future course of action. The meeting was necessitated after party leaders including Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Atishi, Kailash Gahlot and Saurabh Bharadwaj were rounded up for protesting in front of the CBI office and detained to Najafgarh police station. "More than 1500 people protesting in support of Arvind Kejriwal have been arrested by the police. Out of which 1379 people have been kept in different police stations and others are being rotated in buses," said AAP's Gopal Rai. Kejriwal released a video message, prior to heading to the CBI office where he insinuated that CBI officers might dispatch him to jail. “They (CBI) have called me today and I will definitely go. They are very powerful, they can send anyone to jail," said Kejriwal. WATCH | Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia arrested after 8-hour grilling × Meanwhile, senior AAP leader Atishi said the entire country was standing with Kejriwal as CBI continued to hound him. "Arvind Kejriwal has been called for questioning by CBI. They say that it is a scam of thousands of crores but till now they have not been able to prove that even a single rupee was embezzled. The entire country is with Arvind Kejriwal," she said. What is the excise policy scam? The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy will help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and sale of spurious liquor. Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funneling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year. It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of pandemic to create illegal channels of funding. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: AAP leaders conduct emergency meeting as CBI grills Kejriwal in excise scam

With a better party structure, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now eyeing Uttar Pradesh (UP) in the upcoming assembly elections. States like UP, Uttarakhand and Punjab are on the top agenda for the party.

With a better party structure, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now eyeing Uttar Pradesh (UP) in the upcoming assembly elections. States like UP, Uttarakhand and Punjab are on the top agenda for the party. The results in these states will determine if AAP can expand its leadership umbrella beyond Delhi and achieve ‘national party’ status. When AAP's President, Arvind Kejriwal announced that his party would contest the UP elections in 2022, he highlighted how the state has been drowned in corruption. He spoke about how the state leaders are hampering the state’s development. With this, Kejriwal also spoke about the very known Delhi model and how it garnered success - a way by which Kejriwal plans on winning the seat in UP. “If government hospitals in Delhi can improve, people here can get free electricity 24*7, why can’t the same happen in UP?" he said during his speech. Even after the party has become visible on the political circuit under Sanjay Singh (face of the UP poll campaign), there are multiple challenges that it can encounter. Delhi’s model of governance is not sufficient AAP's performance in many other states like Haryana and Maharashtra has already shown that their Delhi model is not enough to expand as a national party. Earlier n 2019, the party got fewer votes than those cast in favour of NOTA. According to the Election Commission, most candidates of the party secured less than 1,000 votes in the two states. A battle against the very well established BSP and SP In Delhi, AAP was fighting primarily against one opposition party, which is, the Bhartiya Janta Party. This is where it managed to gather support from different religious communities, including Muslims, Sikhs and Dalits. Also read | India Assembly elections 2022 | Kejriwal a political tourist, his ‘Punjab Model’ a copycat one: Sidhu However, in its fight in UP, Kejriwal-led AAP will have to battle against Mayawati’s Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP). While BSP retains its support among the Dalits, SP is still known for the support it has garnered from the Muslim and Yadav community. Leadership still remains an issue AAP was born out of India Against Corruption campaign led by social activist Anna Hazare. After the party was elected in the 2013 assembly election in Delhi, it gave up power after just 49 days of running the government as it wanted to contest all the Lok Sabha seats during the 2014 general elections. This raised a lot of questions on the party president Kejriwal. Will SP-AAP alliance remain an option? Earlier last month there were speculations of an AAP and SP alliance, following a meet up between SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and Sanjay Singh. A report by The Print suggests that senior members of both parties met multiple times to discuss the seat-sharing plans. However, they could not reach a consensus. “The idea of an alliance is not working. We will contest in all 403 seats on our own now,” Sanjay Singh was quoted in a report by The Print. Top leaders of both parties have not yet revealed the reason behind the talks not working out. However, a senior SP leader on the condition of anonymity said that SP, during the talks realised that they were not gaining anything as AAP does not have a specific support base in the state.

As AAP gazes 2022 assembly polls in UP, here are a few obstacles that the Kejriwal-led party can face

Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi Chief Minister, launched the AAP's 'Punjab Model' and stated that his party's CM face will be revealed next week.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Navjot Singh Sidhu, the state Congress head in Punjab, attacked Kejriwal, calling him a "political tourist" and his model a "Copy-Cat Model."&nbsp;

"Political Tourist @Arvind Kejriwal who was absent in Punjab for the last 4.5 years claims to have a Punjab Model. AAP’s campaign &amp; agenda is a joke on the people of Punjab. A list of 10 pointers written by people sitting in Delhi with zero knowledge of Punjab can never be Punjab Model!," Sidhu tweeted.

The people of Punjab will not fall for these hollow and non-serious agendas. A Genuine Roadmap which will bring back People’s resources from "Mafia Pockets" to "People of Punjab" is required, " said Sidhu in his tweet. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Truth is Kejriwal’s model of functioning is “Copy-Cat Model”, “I am very insecure Model”, “Liqour Mafia Model”, “Ticket for Money Model”, “I am very sorry Majithia Ji: the Cowardice Model”, “Writing free cheques model”, “Electricity to Ambani’s Model”, “450 jobs in 5 yrs Model”
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sherryontopp/status/1481219728098037761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Sidhu referred to Kejriwal's post-poll governance template for Punjab as a "Copy-Cat Model," "Liquor Mafia Model," "Ticket for Money Model," "I am very sorry Majithia Ji: the Cowardice Model," "Writing free cheques model," "Electricity to Ambani's Model," and "450 jobs in five years Model," among other things.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Resurrection of Punjab is a serious issue, lives of 3 crore Punjabi’s are dependent on it.. People of Punjab will not fall for these hollow and non-serious agendas. A Genuine Roadmap which will bring back People’s resources from “Mafia Pockets” to “People of Punjab” is required.
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sherryontopp/status/1481223314823540736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Sidhu, who had already outlined his plan for governing the state after the elections, said the revival of Punjab is a serious problem since the lives of three crore Punjabis are at stake.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, AAP national convener and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal unveiled his party's "Punjab Model" for governing the state after elections, promising justice in sacrilege cases, jobs for youths, and corruption-free governance, claiming that people want to bring his party to power to end the friendly "partnership" between the Badals and the Congress.

According to him, the Punjab model will have a 10-point agenda that includes providing free electricity to individuals up to 300 units every billing cycle and combating the drug problem.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi Chief Minister, launched the AAP's 'Punjab Model' and stated that his party's CM face will be revealed next week. On the other hand, Navjot Singh Sidhu, the state Congress head in Punjab, attacked Kejriwal, calling him a "political tourist" and his model a "Copy-Cat Model.

Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi Chief Minister, launched the AAP's 'Punjab Model' and stated that his party's CM face will be revealed next week. On the other hand, Navjot Singh Sidhu, the state Congress head in Punjab, attacked Kejriwal, calling him a "political tourist" and his model a "Copy-Cat Model." "Political Tourist @Arvind Kejriwal who was absent in Punjab for the last 4.5 years claims to have a Punjab Model. AAP’s campaign & agenda is a joke on the people of Punjab. A list of 10 pointers written by people sitting in Delhi with zero knowledge of Punjab can never be Punjab Model!," Sidhu tweeted. The people of Punjab will not fall for these hollow and non-serious agendas. A Genuine Roadmap which will bring back People’s resources from "Mafia Pockets" to "People of Punjab" is required, " said Sidhu in his tweet. Truth is Kejriwal’s model of functioning is “Copy-Cat Model”, “I am very insecure Model”, “Liqour Mafia Model”, “Ticket for Money Model”, “I am very sorry Majithia Ji: the Cowardice Model”, “Writing free cheques model”, “Electricity to Ambani’s Model”, “450 jobs in 5 yrs Model” — Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) January 12, 2022 × Sidhu referred to Kejriwal's post-poll governance template for Punjab as a "Copy-Cat Model," "Liquor Mafia Model," "Ticket for Money Model," "I am very sorry Majithia Ji: the Cowardice Model," "Writing free cheques model," "Electricity to Ambani's Model," and "450 jobs in five years Model," among other things. Resurrection of Punjab is a serious issue, lives of 3 crore Punjabi’s are dependent on it.. People of Punjab will not fall for these hollow and non-serious agendas. A Genuine Roadmap which will bring back People’s resources from “Mafia Pockets” to “People of Punjab” is required. — Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) January 12, 2022 × Sidhu, who had already outlined his plan for governing the state after the elections, said the revival of Punjab is a serious problem since the lives of three crore Punjabis are at stake. Earlier in the day, AAP national convener and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal unveiled his party's "Punjab Model" for governing the state after elections, promising justice in sacrilege cases, jobs for youths, and corruption-free governance, claiming that people want to bring his party to power to end the friendly "partnership" between the Badals and the Congress. According to him, the Punjab model will have a 10-point agenda that includes providing free electricity to individuals up to 300 units every billing cycle and combating the drug problem. (With inputs from agencies)

India Assembly elections 2022 | Kejriwal a political tourist, his ‘Punjab Model’ a copycat one: Sidhu

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday. The capital has been under strict lockdown since April 20. 
 
After a meeting with Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, who is also Chairman of DDMA, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the time has come when the process of lifting lockdown needs to be initiated. He asserted that the people of Delhi have suffered a lot during this Covid pandemic, and also due to a month-long lockdown. 
 
He stated those who are working as a labourer and daily wage earner have lost their livelihood and it has been decided that these two activities will be opened from Monday (May 31). 
 
"During the meeting, it has decided that the situation of COVID-19 is under control as daily cases and positivity rate have reduced, now we have to focus on economic activities as well. Many poor families have lost their livelihood due to lockdown and therefore, it has been decided that - two activities - construction work and factories in Delhi will start functioning from Monday." Kejriwal said. 
 
A senior official told IANS that operations of manufacturing, production units in approved industrial areas, activities where the workers are employed within Delhi will be allowed to function. 
 
Addressing a digital press conference on Friday, Kejriwal also said that, taking in consideration the number of Covid cases, the process of unlocking will be increased further. 
 
"Every week, we will continue the process of opening slowly based on the suggestions of the public and on the basis of the views of the experts. If matters start growing again, we have to stop this process. Everyone needs to take precaution. Lockdown is imposed under compulsion... we do not want to impose," he added. 
 
Meanwhile, he also appealed to the citizen of Delhi that "not to leave the house unless there is a need. We all have to behave responsibly".

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday.

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday. The capital has been under strict lockdown since April 20. After a meeting with Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, who is also Chairman of DDMA, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the time has come when the process of lifting lockdown needs to be initiated. He asserted that the people of Delhi have suffered a lot during this Covid pandemic, and also due to a month-long lockdown. He stated those who are working as a labourer and daily wage earner have lost their livelihood and it has been decided that these two activities will be opened from Monday (May 31). "During the meeting, it has decided that the situation of COVID-19 is under control as daily cases and positivity rate have reduced, now we have to focus on economic activities as well. Many poor families have lost their livelihood due to lockdown and therefore, it has been decided that - two activities - construction work and factories in Delhi will start functioning from Monday." Kejriwal said. A senior official told IANS that operations of manufacturing, production units in approved industrial areas, activities where the workers are employed within Delhi will be allowed to function. Addressing a digital press conference on Friday, Kejriwal also said that, taking in consideration the number of Covid cases, the process of unlocking will be increased further. "Every week, we will continue the process of opening slowly based on the suggestions of the public and on the basis of the views of the experts. If matters start growing again, we have to stop this process. Everyone needs to take precaution. Lockdown is imposed under compulsion... we do not want to impose," he added. Meanwhile, he also appealed to the citizen of Delhi that "not to leave the house unless there is a need. We all have to behave responsibly".

Will open Delhi phase-wise from May 31: Kejriwal

In the aftermath of the controversy generated by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's tweets on Covid, the High Commissioner of Singapore to India&nbsp;Simon Wong has said that those who hold political office have the responsibility not to spread&nbsp;falsehoods, pointing out that his country can invoke anti misinformation law POFMA (Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act) law over his remarks.

Simon Wong said, "Prominent political office holders must have a responsibility not to propagate falsehoods".&nbsp;Adding, "In Singapore, we have Protection from Online Falsehoods &amp; Manipulation Act (POFMA). It is meant to mitigate the spread of misinformation, so we reserve the right to invoke POFMA on some of the comments and assertions made by the honorable chief minister on this topic".

Delhi CM in the remarks he tweeted on Tuesday called on the central government to suspend air services with Singapore immediately over the variant from the country which impacts children. The Singaporean High&nbsp;commissioner&nbsp;termed the remarks as&nbsp;"unfounded" and something that "caused a stir"

The matter was raised by Singapore's foreign ministry with the Indian High Commissioner to the country P Kumaran earlier today and both foreign ministers had tweeted about it. In the tweet, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar called the comments of Delhi CM "irresponsible" while Singapore's Foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan hoped for "resolving the [Covid]&nbsp;situation in our respective countries"

Singapore's High Commissioner Simon Wong said with exchanges between foreign ministers of the two&nbsp;countries "we wished to end to this episode" since authorities representing government of India have given a "crystal clear" clarification which is "heartening" and "we feel we should move on".

As the second wave of the cCvid pandemic has hit India, Singapore was the first country from which India got assistance and procured many supplies.&nbsp;"Delhi has been beneficiary of items which has come from Singapore" amid the Covid crisis" said Singapore's high commissioner Simon Wong, explaining, we "were taken aback by unfounded comments by Delhi CM".

Asked about mentioning of the variant first found in India, Wong said,&nbsp;"we refer [to a] virus by scientific terms" by following World Health Organisation recommendations.&nbsp;"It is not Chinese virus or Indian variant," he said, highlighting, "We focus on the scientific aspect" and "we don't have the bandwidth to focus" on other things.

In the aftermath of the controversy generated by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's tweets on Covid, the High Commissioner of Singapore to India Simon Wong has said that those who hold political office have the responsibility not to spread falsehoods, pointing out that his country can invoke anti misinformation law POFMA (Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act) law over his remarks.

In the aftermath of the controversy generated by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's tweets on Covid, the High Commissioner of Singapore to India Simon Wong has said that those who hold political office have the responsibility not to spread falsehoods, pointing out that his country can invoke anti misinformation law POFMA (Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act) law over his remarks. Simon Wong said, "Prominent political office holders must have a responsibility not to propagate falsehoods". Adding, "In Singapore, we have Protection from Online Falsehoods & Manipulation Act (POFMA). It is meant to mitigate the spread of misinformation, so we reserve the right to invoke POFMA on some of the comments and assertions made by the honorable chief minister on this topic". Delhi CM in the remarks he tweeted on Tuesday called on the central government to suspend air services with Singapore immediately over the variant from the country which impacts children. The Singaporean High commissioner termed the remarks as "unfounded" and something that "caused a stir" The matter was raised by Singapore's foreign ministry with the Indian High Commissioner to the country P Kumaran earlier today and both foreign ministers had tweeted about it. In the tweet, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar called the comments of Delhi CM "irresponsible" while Singapore's Foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan hoped for "resolving the [Covid] situation in our respective countries" Singapore's High Commissioner Simon Wong said with exchanges between foreign ministers of the two countries "we wished to end to this episode" since authorities representing government of India have given a "crystal clear" clarification which is "heartening" and "we feel we should move on". As the second wave of the cCvid pandemic has hit India, Singapore was the first country from which India got assistance and procured many supplies. "Delhi has been beneficiary of items which has come from Singapore" amid the Covid crisis" said Singapore's high commissioner Simon Wong, explaining, we "were taken aback by unfounded comments by Delhi CM". Asked about mentioning of the variant first found in India, Wong said, "we refer [to a] virus by scientific terms" by following World Health Organisation recommendations. "It is not Chinese virus or Indian variant," he said, highlighting, "We focus on the scientific aspect" and "we don't have the bandwidth to focus" on other things.

'Political office holders have responsibility not to spread falsehoods', says Singapore's envoy over Delhi CM's tweets

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said his government is fully prepared to initiate Covid-19 vaccination. The vaccine`s first doses may arrive in the national capital any time after getting the Central government`s approval.

Addressing a virtual press briefing, Kejriwal said everyone is waiting for the vaccine even as the number of Covid-19 cases has gone down, the infection rate is also less than 1 per cent, daily deaths have decreased significantly and the recovery rate has improved in the national capital.

"Delhi government is fully prepared to provide vaccine to the people of Delhi. It is ready to receive the vaccine from the Central government," Kejriwal said.

He said the Central government has defined three priority categories. Among them the first doses will be administered to health care workers.

Kejriwal said that as per an estimate around 3 lakh health care workers in Delhi will receive the first dosage of the vaccine.

"Secondly, the vaccine will be given to the front-line workers like police personnel, municipal workers and civil defence personnel, whose number is around 6 lakh in Delhi. In the third category, we have identified more than 42 lakh people who are more than 50 years old or those who are comorbidity patients," said the Delhi Chief Minister.

Kejriwal said around 51 lakh people are in the Delhi government`s priority category as defined by the Central government and all such people have almost been identified. The rest of the work will be completed by next week.

Noting that each person will be administered two doses of the vaccine, totalling 1.2 crore doses, Kejriwal said the Delhi government currently has cold storage capacity of 74 lakh vaccines which will be increased to 1.15 crore within one week.

As per the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor, the registration process of these priority category people has started and they will be administered the vaccine whenever the Delhi government receives it.

"The people who are in priority category will be informed through text message on their mobile phones and they do not need to worry," he said.

Kejriwal said there are sufficient locations where these vaccines will be administered to the people.

"There will be five persons in a team at one location and these teams have already been trained, "he said.

The AAP leader added that if anyone suffers side effects after the vaccination, there is a facility for immediate treatment as well.

"Now we are waiting for the vaccine. As soon as we get these vaccines, we will start the vaccination process," he said.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said his government is fully prepared to initiate Covid-19 vaccination. The vaccine`s first doses may arrive in the national capital any time after getting the Central government`s approval.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said his government is fully prepared to initiate Covid-19 vaccination. The vaccine`s first doses may arrive in the national capital any time after getting the Central government`s approval. Addressing a virtual press briefing, Kejriwal said everyone is waiting for the vaccine even as the number of Covid-19 cases has gone down, the infection rate is also less than 1 per cent, daily deaths have decreased significantly and the recovery rate has improved in the national capital. "Delhi government is fully prepared to provide vaccine to the people of Delhi. It is ready to receive the vaccine from the Central government," Kejriwal said. He said the Central government has defined three priority categories. Among them the first doses will be administered to health care workers. Kejriwal said that as per an estimate around 3 lakh health care workers in Delhi will receive the first dosage of the vaccine. "Secondly, the vaccine will be given to the front-line workers like police personnel, municipal workers and civil defence personnel, whose number is around 6 lakh in Delhi. In the third category, we have identified more than 42 lakh people who are more than 50 years old or those who are comorbidity patients," said the Delhi Chief Minister. Kejriwal said around 51 lakh people are in the Delhi government`s priority category as defined by the Central government and all such people have almost been identified. The rest of the work will be completed by next week. Noting that each person will be administered two doses of the vaccine, totalling 1.2 crore doses, Kejriwal said the Delhi government currently has cold storage capacity of 74 lakh vaccines which will be increased to 1.15 crore within one week. As per the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor, the registration process of these priority category people has started and they will be administered the vaccine whenever the Delhi government receives it. "The people who are in priority category will be informed through text message on their mobile phones and they do not need to worry," he said. Kejriwal said there are sufficient locations where these vaccines will be administered to the people. "There will be five persons in a team at one location and these teams have already been trained, "he said. The AAP leader added that if anyone suffers side effects after the vaccination, there is a facility for immediate treatment as well. "Now we are waiting for the vaccine. As soon as we get these vaccines, we will start the vaccination process," he said.

Delhi govt fully prepared for COVID vaccination: Kejriwal

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that the Lieutenant Governor's orders overruling his government's decisions on coronavirus will be implemented as "this is not the time for disagreements and politics".

He also said that Delhi will need 1.5 lakh beds by July 31 once people start coming from other states for COVID-19 treatment and declared that the Lieutenant Governor's orders overruling his government's decisions on coronavirus will be implemented as "this is not the time for disagreements and politics". 
&nbsp; 
Addressing an online media briefing, he said his government has "unprecedented challenges" ahead as data shows that COVID-19 cases will rapidly increase in Delhi, but asserted that around 1,900 patients got beds in hospitals in the last eight days and 4,200beds were still available, a claim that comes amidst reports of acute shortage of beds in healthcare facilities in the national capital. 
&nbsp; 
Kejriwal went into self-isolation on Sunday after he developed sore throat and fever. His COVID-19 test is negative.

(With inputs from PTI)

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that the Lieutenant Governor's orders overruling his government's decisions on coronavirus will be implemented as "this is not the time for disagreements and politics".

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that the Lieutenant Governor's orders overruling his government's decisions on coronavirus will be implemented as "this is not the time for disagreements and politics". He also said that Delhi will need 1.5 lakh beds by July 31 once people start coming from other states for COVID-19 treatment and declared that the Lieutenant Governor's orders overruling his government's decisions on coronavirus will be implemented as "this is not the time for disagreements and politics". Addressing an online media briefing, he said his government has "unprecedented challenges" ahead as data shows that COVID-19 cases will rapidly increase in Delhi, but asserted that around 1,900 patients got beds in hospitals in the last eight days and 4,200beds were still available, a claim that comes amidst reports of acute shortage of beds in healthcare facilities in the national capital. Kejriwal went into self-isolation on Sunday after he developed sore throat and fever. His COVID-19 test is negative. (With inputs from PTI)

This is not the time for politics, Delhi will need 1.5 lakh beds by July 31: Arvind Kejriwal

The Chief Minister of Delhi, India has begun self-isolating at home after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has fever and also claims to have a sore throat, two of the key symptoms of coronavirus.

According to media reports, his symptoms began showing on Sunday, and has since then cancelled all his meetings and addresses.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/delhi-govt-and-private-hospitals-to-be-reserved-only-for-patients-from-national-capital-cm-kejriwal-304009" hreflang="en">Delhi govt and private hospitals to be reserved only for patients from national capital: CM Kejriwal</a>

On Sunday, Kejriwal appeared at a meeting to discuss coronavirus in Delhi and announced that all Delhi government hospitals along with a few private hospitals will now treat only residents of the city. Central hospitals may treat anyone, he added.

Delhi is the third-hardest hit state in the country, after Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. Until now, the city has over 28,000 positive cases and has recorded over 800 deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/kejriwal-launches-mobile-app-for-updates-on-vacant-beds-in-hospitals-for-covid-19-patients-302589" hreflang="en">Kejriwal launches mobile app for updates on vacant beds in hospitals for COVID-19 patients</a>

Kejriwal is set to get tested for COVID-19 soon.

Meanwhile, India witnessed the highest spike ever in the number of reported cases today, and has moved to the fifth spot globally in terms of the number of cases, leaving behind Spain and Italy, that were once epicentres of the pandemic in Europe.

The Chief Minister of Delhi, India has begun self-isolating at home after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has fever and also claims to have a sore throat, two of the key symptoms of coronavirus.

The Chief Minister of Delhi, India has begun self-isolating at home after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has fever and also claims to have a sore throat, two of the key symptoms of coronavirus. According to media reports, his symptoms began showing on Sunday, and has since then cancelled all his meetings and addresses. Also read: Delhi govt and private hospitals to be reserved only for patients from national capital: CM Kejriwal On Sunday, Kejriwal appeared at a meeting to discuss coronavirus in Delhi and announced that all Delhi government hospitals along with a few private hospitals will now treat only residents of the city. Central hospitals may treat anyone, he added. Delhi is the third-hardest hit state in the country, after Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. Until now, the city has over 28,000 positive cases and has recorded over 800 deaths. Also read: Kejriwal launches mobile app for updates on vacant beds in hospitals for COVID-19 patients Kejriwal is set to get tested for COVID-19 soon. Meanwhile, India witnessed the highest spike ever in the number of reported cases today, and has moved to the fifth spot globally in terms of the number of cases, leaving behind Spain and Italy, that were once epicentres of the pandemic in Europe.

Delhi CM Kejriwal quarantines himself after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that religious, social, cultural and political ceremonies, as well as protests by more than 50 people, would not be allowed until 31 March in view of the outbreak of coronavirus in the national capital.

Delhi CM Kejriwal takes measures to contain COVID-19 outbreak, stoppage on public gatherings!

Perpetrators of the Delhi violence should be handed out strictest possible punishment, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday after meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first since he took over the post for the third time.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/delhi-violence-the-price-society-pays-for-violence-is-immeasurable-and-enormous-283279"> Delhi violence: The price society pays for violence is immeasurable and enormous</a>

"I raised the demand for strictest possible punishment for the perpetrators responsible for the riots in Delhi, irrespective of their party, religion or status," Kejriwal told ANI here.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-arrest-over-500-for-delhi-violence-283285">Police arrest over 500 for Delhi violence</a>

Terming his meeting with the Prime Minister a 'courtesy call' Kejriwal said the duo also discussed the spread of coronavirus. 
"We (the Centre and Delhi government) should work together to stop the spread of coronavirus and for treating the people who are infected with it," the chief minister said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/anti-caa-delhi-violence-death-toll-rises-to-38-283232/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Later at a press conference, elaborating about the meeting, Kejriwal said that he had praised the state police for the commendable work is done on Sunday (March 1) evening in preventing rumours in various areas of Delhi.

"I also said that the same kind of alertness and response should have been shown by the police department on Monday and Tuesday (February 24 and 25) then the loss of lives could have been prevented," Kejriwal said.

"I also said to the PM that we must take all necessary steps to ensure that such riots do not take place in Delhi ever again," he added. 
At least 47 people lost their lives and more than 200 injured in the violence in North-East Delhi.

Perpetrators of the Delhi violence should be handed out strictest possible punishment, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday after meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first since he took over the post for the third time.

Perpetrators of the Delhi violence should be handed out strictest possible punishment, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday after meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first since he took over the post for the third time. Also read: Delhi violence: The price society pays for violence is immeasurable and enormous "I raised the demand for strictest possible punishment for the perpetrators responsible for the riots in Delhi, irrespective of their party, religion or status," Kejriwal told ANI here. Also read: Police arrest over 500 for Delhi violence Terming his meeting with the Prime Minister a 'courtesy call' Kejriwal said the duo also discussed the spread of coronavirus. "We (the Centre and Delhi government) should work together to stop the spread of coronavirus and for treating the people who are infected with it," the chief minister said. Later at a press conference, elaborating about the meeting, Kejriwal said that he had praised the state police for the commendable work is done on Sunday (March 1) evening in preventing rumours in various areas of Delhi. "I also said that the same kind of alertness and response should have been shown by the police department on Monday and Tuesday (February 24 and 25) then the loss of lives could have been prevented," Kejriwal said. "I also said to the PM that we must take all necessary steps to ensure that such riots do not take place in Delhi ever again," he added. At least 47 people lost their lives and more than 200 injured in the violence in North-East Delhi.

Kejriwal meets PM Modi, appeals for strict action against perpetrators of Delhi riots

Perpetrators of the Delhi violence should be handed out strictest possible punishment, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday after meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first since he took over the post for the third time.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/delhi-violence-the-price-society-pays-for-violence-is-immeasurable-and-enormous-283279"> Delhi violence: The price society pays for violence is immeasurable and enormous</a>

 
"I raised the demand for strictest possible punishment for the perpetrators responsible for the riots in Delhi, irrespective of their party, religion or status," Kejriwal told ANI here.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-arrest-over-500-for-delhi-violence-283285">Police arrest over 500 for Delhi violence</a>

 
Terming his meeting with the Prime Minister a 'courtesy call' Kejriwal said the duo also discussed the spread of coronavirus. 
"We (the Centre and Delhi government) should work together to stop the spread of coronavirus and for treating the people who are infected with it," the chief minister said.

Later at a press conference, elaborating about the meeting, Kejriwal said that he had praised the state police for the commendable work is done on Sunday (March 1) evening in preventing rumours in various areas of Delhi. 
"I also said that the same kind of alertness and response should have been shown by the police department on Monday and Tuesday (February 24 and 25) then the loss of lives could have been prevented," Kejriwal said. 
"I also said to the PM that we must take all necessary steps to ensure that such riots do not take place in Delhi ever again," he added. 
At least 47 people lost their lives and more than 200 injured in the violence in North-East Delhi.

Delhi Riots: Clashes over CAA rock the national capital

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said.

Melania, the wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students.

Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event.

When contacted, a US embassy spokesperson referred the query to Delhi government on the matter.

According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about rationale behind introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city said.

"Names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the list of invitees for the event. We do not know who will receive and brief the First Lady about happiness classes when she visits our school," said a Delhi government official, who wished not to be named.

Though there was no official reaction from the Delhi government on the issue, a series of tweets by Sisodia, credited with educational reform in Delhi schools, indicated the AAP dispensation's unhappiness over it.

He said "happiness class" is "the solution to all hate and narrow mindedness".

"Education is meaningless without happiness. I am happy that Delhi govt schools are showing a path to the world. And the world is curious to know what we are doing in happiness class," he said.

Earlier in the day, the deputy chief minister told reporters that the Delhi government had received a request about Melania's visit to a government school.

`"If she (Melania) wants to come (to a government school), we welcome her," he said.

An AAP functionary argued that in absence of the chief minister and his deputy, who will brief Melania about the 'happiness curriculum'.

"Delhi government's happiness curriculum has been lauded across the globe. Who will brief Melania Trump if the chief minister and the deputy chief minister are not present during her visit," he asked.

Expressing anguish over exclusion of names of the two leaders from the event, Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said it has been a "protocol" and "convention" that the state leaders are present when any foreign dignitary attends events in their states.

He also alleged that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the guest list at the behest of the BJP-led central government. He referred to a press conference by a BJP spokesperson to clarify the saffron party's stand on the issue.

"The BJP is claiming that it (Centre) did not ask the US Embassy to drop the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia from the guest list. The comments actually indicated that there is something fishy," Bhardwaj claimed.

"If it (the Centre) has not asked it (the US Embassy) to drop names of the CM and deputy CM, then it could have simply requested the embassy to include their names," he said.

"Instead of asking the US embassy for the same, holding press conference by a BJP leader is a clear indication that it (BJP) is involved in the entire matter," Bharadwaj said when asked about the issue.

On Kejriwal not being part of the guest list for Melania's visit to the Delhi school, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said that there shouldn't be any "low-level politics or petty politics" on issues which are of national interest.

"India comes under disrepute if we start pulling each other's legs. The Modi government doesn't influence the US, as to whom they invite or not," he said.

The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. According to the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "happiness classes" where they participate in activities like storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions.

Similarly, for nursery and kindergarten students, the classes are held twice a week.

The Arvind Kejriwal-led government has been spending a large chunk of its budget on education in the city in the last several years.

In its last budget, the Delhi government had set aside 25 per cent of its total budget for the education sector, perhaps highest among other states.

Kejriwal led AAP to a spectacular victory in the assembly elections earlier this month primarily riding on his development agenda including reforms in the health and education sectors.

The reforms initiated by the AAP government have been lauded by several prominent personalities.

On Friday, Kejriwal said his government will provide all possible help to the Maharashtra government to implement education reforms which he said reflected "cooperative federalism at its best".&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said. Melania, the wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students. Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event. When contacted, a US embassy spokesperson referred the query to Delhi government on the matter. According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about rationale behind introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city said. "Names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the list of invitees for the event. We do not know who will receive and brief the First Lady about happiness classes when she visits our school," said a Delhi government official, who wished not to be named. Though there was no official reaction from the Delhi government on the issue, a series of tweets by Sisodia, credited with educational reform in Delhi schools, indicated the AAP dispensation's unhappiness over it. He said "happiness class" is "the solution to all hate and narrow mindedness". "Education is meaningless without happiness. I am happy that Delhi govt schools are showing a path to the world. And the world is curious to know what we are doing in happiness class," he said. Earlier in the day, the deputy chief minister told reporters that the Delhi government had received a request about Melania's visit to a government school. `"If she (Melania) wants to come (to a government school), we welcome her," he said. An AAP functionary argued that in absence of the chief minister and his deputy, who will brief Melania about the 'happiness curriculum'. "Delhi government's happiness curriculum has been lauded across the globe. Who will brief Melania Trump if the chief minister and the deputy chief minister are not present during her visit," he asked. Expressing anguish over exclusion of names of the two leaders from the event, Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said it has been a "protocol" and "convention" that the state leaders are present when any foreign dignitary attends events in their states. He also alleged that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the guest list at the behest of the BJP-led central government. He referred to a press conference by a BJP spokesperson to clarify the saffron party's stand on the issue. "The BJP is claiming that it (Centre) did not ask the US Embassy to drop the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia from the guest list. The comments actually indicated that there is something fishy," Bhardwaj claimed. "If it (the Centre) has not asked it (the US Embassy) to drop names of the CM and deputy CM, then it could have simply requested the embassy to include their names," he said. "Instead of asking the US embassy for the same, holding press conference by a BJP leader is a clear indication that it (BJP) is involved in the entire matter," Bharadwaj said when asked about the issue. On Kejriwal not being part of the guest list for Melania's visit to the Delhi school, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said that there shouldn't be any "low-level politics or petty politics" on issues which are of national interest. "India comes under disrepute if we start pulling each other's legs. The Modi government doesn't influence the US, as to whom they invite or not," he said. The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. According to the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "happiness classes" where they participate in activities like storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions. Similarly, for nursery and kindergarten students, the classes are held twice a week. The Arvind Kejriwal-led government has been spending a large chunk of its budget on education in the city in the last several years. In its last budget, the Delhi government had set aside 25 per cent of its total budget for the education sector, perhaps highest among other states. Kejriwal led AAP to a spectacular victory in the assembly elections earlier this month primarily riding on his development agenda including reforms in the health and education sectors. The reforms initiated by the AAP government have been lauded by several prominent personalities. On Friday, Kejriwal said his government will provide all possible help to the Maharashtra government to implement education reforms which he said reflected "cooperative federalism at its best".

CM Kejriwal, his deputy Sisodia dropped from Melania's school event

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that instead of keeping departments himself, he prefers to monitor the work of each of his cabinet ministers.

"I feel the duty of a Chief Minister is to keep an eye on other ministers and, hence, I have distributed the portfolios to the ministers," Kejriwal said in response to a media query about him not keeping any portfolio.

The Delhi Chief Minister was also criticised by the opposition during his last stint for not keeping any ministry/department with himself. He was jeered as "Minister without a portfolio" by the opposition.

This time around, too, Kejriwal has not kept any department with him. He also said, "Today, I had a meeting with the secretaries and ministers of all departments of the Delhi government wherein discussions were held on the 10 guarantees."

"In the meeting, departments have been directed to prepare a presentation within a week on the guarantee for which they are responsible. In the presentation they have to specify the timeline and the budget needed to fulfil their allotted guarantee," the Chief Minister added.

He further said that after one week another meeting will be held with each department and the budget demanded by them will be presented to the public via media.

"The budget as demanded by the departments will be included in the upcoming state Budget," he added.

He also said that the Cabinet has decided to hold a three-day Assembly session of the new government from February 24.

Arvind Kejriwal also spoke to the reporters about the meeting held with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

He said, "The meeting with Amit Shah was held in a cordial atmosphere. We held discussions on various issues and we agreed that the central government and Delhi government need to work together for the development of Delhi."&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that instead of keeping departments himself, he prefers to monitor the work of each of his cabinet ministers.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that instead of keeping departments himself, he prefers to monitor the work of each of his cabinet ministers. "I feel the duty of a Chief Minister is to keep an eye on other ministers and, hence, I have distributed the portfolios to the ministers," Kejriwal said in response to a media query about him not keeping any portfolio. The Delhi Chief Minister was also criticised by the opposition during his last stint for not keeping any ministry/department with himself. He was jeered as "Minister without a portfolio" by the opposition. This time around, too, Kejriwal has not kept any department with him. He also said, "Today, I had a meeting with the secretaries and ministers of all departments of the Delhi government wherein discussions were held on the 10 guarantees." "In the meeting, departments have been directed to prepare a presentation within a week on the guarantee for which they are responsible. In the presentation they have to specify the timeline and the budget needed to fulfil their allotted guarantee," the Chief Minister added. He further said that after one week another meeting will be held with each department and the budget demanded by them will be presented to the public via media. "The budget as demanded by the departments will be included in the upcoming state Budget," he added. He also said that the Cabinet has decided to hold a three-day Assembly session of the new government from February 24. Arvind Kejriwal also spoke to the reporters about the meeting held with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He said, "The meeting with Amit Shah was held in a cordial atmosphere. We held discussions on various issues and we agreed that the central government and Delhi government need to work together for the development of Delhi."

I prefer to supervise each ministry instead of keeping one for myself: Kejriwal

Arvind Kejriwal, who spearheaded the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-praises-centre-for-developing-peripheral-expressways-to-curb-pollution-268220" target="_blank">Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)</a>&nbsp;to another resounding victory in the assembly elections of Delhi by winning 62 seats out of 70 against the BJP led juggernaut, takes oath as the chief minister of city-state today.

Kejriwal is sworn-in as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-to-be-sworn-in-as-delhi-chief-minister-on-february-16-280211" target="_blank">Chief Minister of Delhi</a>&nbsp;for the third time in a row.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chief-minister-arvind-kejriwal-not-to-attend-hemant-sorens-swearing-in-ceremony-270800" target="_blank">Kejriwal</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to take oath along with other ministers at 10 am at a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan. Big banners with messages like 'Dhanyawad Dilli' along with the image of Kejriwal have been put along the route of Ramlila Maidan.

The 51-year-old bureaucrat-turned-politician will be administered the oath of office and secrecy by Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal at Ramlila Maidan here, which has been all decked for the momentous moment.

<img alt="Arvind Kejriwal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ab4ee98-d4fa-470b-b381-63c0083cfd8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_8.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;AAP Leader Arvind Kejriwal (Courtesy: AFP) ]

Also See:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-irs-officer-to-delhi-cm-the-journey-of-arvind-kejriwal-280027" target="_blank">From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal</a>

Referring to himself as "son of Delhi", Kejriwal extended an invitation to Delhiites for his oath ceremony and tweeted, "I am so glad that such large number of people are joining the new politics - kaam ki raajniti." On Saturday, Kejriwal, through a tweet, has said that autorickshaw drivers, students, teachers, doctors, labourers etc will be the "chief guests".

The Directorate of Education (DoE) Board in Delhi has requested all the heads of all Delhi government schools to attend the ceremony, along with Vice-Principals, Entrepreneurship Mindset Curriculum Coordinators, Happiness Coordinators, and Teacher Development Coordinators are also requested to attend the ceremony.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-can-arvind-kejriwal-retain-his-throne-279957" target="_blank">Delhi: Can Arvind Kejriwal retain his throne?</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-can-arvind-kejriwal-retain-his-throne-279957/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The venue also served as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-election-arvind-kejriwal-promises-to-end-civic-woes-in-manifesto-275254" target="_blank">battleground for Kejriwal</a>&nbsp;during India Against Corruption movement in 2011. By winning 62 seats by cashing in on the plank of development, his party nearly repeated its 2015 performance, sweeping the Assembly polls in the face of a high-voltage campaign by the BJP, which had fielded a battery of Union Ministers and Chief Ministers in its electioneering, spearheaded by Home Minister Amit Shah.

The BJP marginally improved its tally, managing just eight seats from its 2015's tally of three seats. The Congress failed to open its account in the second successive election.

Arvind Kejriwal, who spearheaded the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to another resounding victory in the assembly elections of Delhi by winning 62 seats out of 70 against the BJP led juggernaut, takes oath as the chief minister of city-state today.

Arvind Kejriwal, who spearheaded the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to another resounding victory in the assembly elections of Delhi by winning 62 seats out of 70 against the BJP led juggernaut, takes oath as the chief minister of city-state today. Kejriwal is sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Delhi for the third time in a row. Kejriwal is scheduled to take oath along with other ministers at 10 am at a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan. Big banners with messages like 'Dhanyawad Dilli' along with the image of Kejriwal have been put along the route of Ramlila Maidan. The 51-year-old bureaucrat-turned-politician will be administered the oath of office and secrecy by Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal at Ramlila Maidan here, which has been all decked for the momentous moment. [ AAP Leader Arvind Kejriwal (Courtesy: AFP) ] Also See: From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal Referring to himself as "son of Delhi", Kejriwal extended an invitation to Delhiites for his oath ceremony and tweeted, "I am so glad that such large number of people are joining the new politics - kaam ki raajniti." On Saturday, Kejriwal, through a tweet, has said that autorickshaw drivers, students, teachers, doctors, labourers etc will be the "chief guests". The Directorate of Education (DoE) Board in Delhi has requested all the heads of all Delhi government schools to attend the ceremony, along with Vice-Principals, Entrepreneurship Mindset Curriculum Coordinators, Happiness Coordinators, and Teacher Development Coordinators are also requested to attend the ceremony. Watch: Delhi: Can Arvind Kejriwal retain his throne? The venue also served as the battleground for Kejriwal during India Against Corruption movement in 2011. By winning 62 seats by cashing in on the plank of development, his party nearly repeated its 2015 performance, sweeping the Assembly polls in the face of a high-voltage campaign by the BJP, which had fielded a battery of Union Ministers and Chief Ministers in its electioneering, spearheaded by Home Minister Amit Shah. The BJP marginally improved its tally, managing just eight seats from its 2015's tally of three seats. The Congress failed to open its account in the second successive election.

Arvind Kejriwal takes oath as Delhi CM for third term

Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged ahead of its rival the BJP in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020 as leads suggested the ruling party is all set to sweep the Delhi Assembly election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-news-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-AAP-leads-56-seats-BJP-14-AAP-vs-BJP-Delhi-election-results-2020-updates-279915">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE</a>

According to the Election Commission of India, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2020-delhi-election-news-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-election-result-2020-AAP-surges-into-lead-as-BJP-trails-Congress-fails-to-open-account">AAP</a> is leading in 63&nbsp;assembly constituencies with the BJP far behind with 7&nbsp;seats. Congress which hadn't declared its chief minister face is yet to open its account.&nbsp;

Watch Video:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-election-2020-aap-likely-to-get-55-out-of-70-seats-280025/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Delhi deputy chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party's Manish Sisodia who was trailing in successive rounds of counting is now leading with 3,129 votes in the Patparganj assembly constituency against BJP's Ravinder Singh Negi with AAP candidate Raghav Chadha leading from Rajinder Nagar constituency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-irs-officer-to-delhi-cm-the-journey-of-arvind-kejriwal-280027">In Pics:&nbsp;From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal</a>

With the Delhi Assembly election results stacked against the BJP, MP Parvesh Verma, said: "I accept the result. We will work hard and give a better performance in the next elections."

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/L-G-Anil-Baijal-dissolves-legislative-assembly-amid-Delhi-Assembly-elections-results-2020">Anil Baijal</a> dissolved the sixth legislative assembly as leads showed AAP heading towards an overwhelming majority.

Congress candidate Alka Lamba was trailing from Chandni Chowk assembly seat. "I accept the result, but don't give up. Hindu-Muslim votes were completely polarised. Congress will now have to prepare for a new fight with new faces and a long struggle for the people of Delhi. If you fight today, you will also win tomorrow," Lamba tweeted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Assembly-polls-AAP-mufflerman-trends-as-Kejriwals-party-surges-in-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-Election-2020">Also Read:&nbsp;AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges in Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020</a>

In the latest trends, Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha was also leading from the Rajinder Nagar assembly constituency as the AAP wave continued to sweep India's national capital for the second time.

Congratulating the Aam Aadmi Party and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Election-2020-Results-live-news-aap-leads-in-22-seats-bjp-14-election-commission-delhi-election-poll-result-live-BJP-vs-APP279949">Arvind Kejriwal</a>, Kapil Mishra, BJP candidate from Model Town constituency, said: "BJP has lost the fifth state election in a row. It means we have somewhere failed to connect with the people of Delhi."

In the 2015 Delhi Assembly elections, the Congress had a vote share of 9.7 per cent against the BJP's 32.7 per cent and the AAP's 54.34 per cent. The Congress had been in power in Delhi for three straight terms between 1998-2013 with Dikshit as the chief minister.

Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged ahead of its rival the BJP in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020 as leads suggested the ruling party is all set to sweep the Delhi Assembly election.

Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) surged ahead of its rival the BJP in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha election 2020 as leads suggested the ruling party is all set to sweep the Delhi Assembly election. Also Read: Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE According to the Election Commission of India, AAP is leading in 63 assembly constituencies with the BJP far behind with 7 seats. Congress which hadn't declared its chief minister face is yet to open its account. Watch Video: Delhi deputy chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party's Manish Sisodia who was trailing in successive rounds of counting is now leading with 3,129 votes in the Patparganj assembly constituency against BJP's Ravinder Singh Negi with AAP candidate Raghav Chadha leading from Rajinder Nagar constituency. In Pics: From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal With the Delhi Assembly election results stacked against the BJP, MP Parvesh Verma, said: "I accept the result. We will work hard and give a better performance in the next elections." Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth legislative assembly as leads showed AAP heading towards an overwhelming majority. Congress candidate Alka Lamba was trailing from Chandni Chowk assembly seat. "I accept the result, but don't give up. Hindu-Muslim votes were completely polarised. Congress will now have to prepare for a new fight with new faces and a long struggle for the people of Delhi. If you fight today, you will also win tomorrow," Lamba tweeted. Also Read: AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges in Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 In the latest trends, Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha was also leading from the Rajinder Nagar assembly constituency as the AAP wave continued to sweep India's national capital for the second time. Congratulating the Aam Aadmi Party and Arvind Kejriwal, Kapil Mishra, BJP candidate from Model Town constituency, said: "BJP has lost the fifth state election in a row. It means we have somewhere failed to connect with the people of Delhi." In the 2015 Delhi Assembly elections, the Congress had a vote share of 9.7 per cent against the BJP's 32.7 per cent and the AAP's 54.34 per cent. The Congress had been in power in Delhi for three straight terms between 1998-2013 with Dikshit as the chief minister.

Arvind Kejriwal's AAP surges as BJP trails far behind in Delhi Assembly election results 2020

As the leads in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 poured in with chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party surging ahead, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-result-2020-live-news-big-test-for-bjp-arvind-kejriwals-aam-adami-party-as-counting-of-votes-begin-AAP-leads-56-seats-BJP-14-AAP-vs-BJP-Delhi-election-results-2020-updates-279915">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE</a>

In the latest Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2020-delhi-election-news-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-election-result-2020-AAP-surges-into-lead-as-BJP-trails-Congress-fails-to-open-account">AAP</a> was leading in 58 seats with the BJP far behind leading in 12 seats. The Congress which drew a blank last time is not leading in any seat.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/delhi-election-2020-aap-surges-ahead-of-bjp-as-counting-underway-279995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With the BJP failing to stack the numbers the party expected, BJP MP from East Delhi, Gautam Gambhir said: "We accept Delhi election results and congratulate Arvind Kejriwal &amp; the people of Delhi."

"We tried our best but probably, we could not convince the people of the state. I hope Delhi develops under the chief ministership of Arvind Kejriwal," Gambhir added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Assembly-polls-AAP-mufflerman-trends-as-Kejriwals-party-surges-in-Delhi-Vidhan-Sabha-Election-2020">Also Read:&nbsp;AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges</a>

After trailing by over 1,500 votes, Delhi's deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia is trailing BJP's Ravi Negi, by 859 votes in the seventh round with AAP's Raghuvinder Shokeen leading from Nangloi Jat constituency, after the sixth round of counting of votes. 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Delhi-Election-2020-Results-live-news-aap-leads-in-22-seats-bjp-14-election-commission-delhi-election-poll-result-live-BJP-vs-APP279949">AAP</a> supporters were seen celebrating on the streets of Delhi as the leads were declared early morning on Tuesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

AAP's Amanatullah Khan has been leading from Okhla assembly constituency and Madan Lal leading from &nbsp;Kasturba Nagar after the second round of counting. 
&nbsp; 
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she had already congratulated Arvind Kejriwal.&nbsp;

"People have rejected BJP. Only development will work, CAA, NRC and NPR will be rejected," the West Bengal chief minister said.

As the leads in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 poured in with chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party surging ahead, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

As the leads in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha Election 2020 poured in with chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party surging ahead, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal dissolved the sixth Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Also Read: Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020 LIVE In the latest Delhi Assembly Election Result 2020, AAP was leading in 58 seats with the BJP far behind leading in 12 seats. The Congress which drew a blank last time is not leading in any seat. Watch Video: With the BJP failing to stack the numbers the party expected, BJP MP from East Delhi, Gautam Gambhir said: "We accept Delhi election results and congratulate Arvind Kejriwal & the people of Delhi." "We tried our best but probably, we could not convince the people of the state. I hope Delhi develops under the chief ministership of Arvind Kejriwal," Gambhir added. Also Read: AAP's 'mufflerman' trends as Kejriwal's party surges After trailing by over 1,500 votes, Delhi's deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia is trailing BJP's Ravi Negi, by 859 votes in the seventh round with AAP's Raghuvinder Shokeen leading from Nangloi Jat constituency, after the sixth round of counting of votes. AAP supporters were seen celebrating on the streets of Delhi as the leads were declared early morning on Tuesday. AAP's Amanatullah Khan has been leading from Okhla assembly constituency and Madan Lal leading from Kasturba Nagar after the second round of counting. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she had already congratulated Arvind Kejriwal. "People have rejected BJP. Only development will work, CAA, NRC and NPR will be rejected," the West Bengal chief minister said.

L-G Anil Baijal dissolves legislative assembly amid Delhi Assembly elections results 2020

Delhi election: CM Kejriwal, President Kovind and others cast votes

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday dared the rival BJP to declare its chief ministerial candidate for the Delhi Assembly and said that it's the right of the Delhi's voters to choose their chief minister and not that of Union Home Minister Amit Shah who wants city voters to give him a "blank cheque".

He said that if the BJP does not declare its chief ministerial candidate, the votes given to the party will "go into a pit".

"People of Delhi are demanding from BJP to reveal its chief ministerial candidate. People want to know who they are voting for. If they do not reveal their CM candidate, then the votes of the people are going into a pit," Kejriwal said while speaking to ANI.

"In a democracy, the people choose their chief minister and not anyone else. The people should have the right to choose who they want as their chief minister. Amit Shah is asking people of Delhi to give him a blank cheque so he can fill in the name of the chief minister," the Delhi Chief Minister added.

Kejriwal said that he is ready to debate with BJP's chief ministerial candidate.

"If BJP declares its chief ministerial candidate, I am willing to participate in a debate with that person. (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah is asking people to vote for the BJP so that he can choose the chief minister," Kejriwal said.

On Tuesday, AAP also released its manifesto for the upcoming assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday dared the rival BJP to declare its chief ministerial candidate for the Delhi Assembly and said that it's the right of the Delhi's voters to choose their chief minister and not that of Union Home Minister Amit Shah who wants city voters to give him a "blank cheque".

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday dared the rival BJP to declare its chief ministerial candidate for the Delhi Assembly and said that it's the right of the Delhi's voters to choose their chief minister and not that of Union Home Minister Amit Shah who wants city voters to give him a "blank cheque". He said that if the BJP does not declare its chief ministerial candidate, the votes given to the party will "go into a pit". "People of Delhi are demanding from BJP to reveal its chief ministerial candidate. People want to know who they are voting for. If they do not reveal their CM candidate, then the votes of the people are going into a pit," Kejriwal said while speaking to ANI. "In a democracy, the people choose their chief minister and not anyone else. The people should have the right to choose who they want as their chief minister. Amit Shah is asking people of Delhi to give him a blank cheque so he can fill in the name of the chief minister," the Delhi Chief Minister added. Kejriwal said that he is ready to debate with BJP's chief ministerial candidate. "If BJP declares its chief ministerial candidate, I am willing to participate in a debate with that person. (Union Home Minister) Amit Shah is asking people to vote for the BJP so that he can choose the chief minister," Kejriwal said. On Tuesday, AAP also released its manifesto for the upcoming assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11.

Delhi CM will be chosen by people, not Amit Shah: Kejriwal

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that Delhi government never delayed any work related to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case rather all the work which was under the ambit of the state government was completed within hours.

"All the work that was under the Delhi government was completed by us within hours. We never delayed any work related to this case. Delhi government hardly has any role in it. We want convicts to be hanged at the earliest," said Kejriwal while speaking to the reporters.

Launching a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party, BJP on Thursday alleged that the negligence of state government was the reason behind the delay of the hanging of the Nirbhaya convicts.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar had asserted that AAP is responsible for the delay in justice. On this, Kejriwal said, "He (Prakash Javadekar) is playing politics. Such matters should not be seen as politically. What is our role in this? We do not have the police, neither we have the law and order in our hands. We only send files from here and there."

Kejriwal's statement came after President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday rejected the mercy petition of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case convict Mukesh Singh.

One of the convicts of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, Mukesh's mercy plea has been rejected by President Kovind, MHA has received the communication in this regard, sources said.

The MHA had sent Singh's mercy petition to Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday night, sources said. Earlier, Mukesh Singh, one of the four convicts in the gang-rape and murder of a paramedic student in 2012, had informed the Delhi High Court that his mercy petition is pending before the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and the President of India and he should be given a minimum 14 days notice between the rejection of his mercy petition and scheduled date of execution.

The Delhi High Court has refused to set aside the trial court order which issued a death warrant.

The court had asked the convict's counsel to approach the trial court and apprise about the pending mercy plea.

The four convicts were sentenced to death for raping a 23-year-old woman in a moving bus in the national capital on the intervening night of December 16-17, 2012.

The victim, who was later given the name Nirbhaya, had succumbed to injuries at a hospital in Singapore where she had been airlifted for medical treatment.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that Delhi government never delayed any work related to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case rather all the work which was under the ambit of the state government was completed within hours.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that Delhi government never delayed any work related to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case rather all the work which was under the ambit of the state government was completed within hours. "All the work that was under the Delhi government was completed by us within hours. We never delayed any work related to this case. Delhi government hardly has any role in it. We want convicts to be hanged at the earliest," said Kejriwal while speaking to the reporters. Launching a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party, BJP on Thursday alleged that the negligence of state government was the reason behind the delay of the hanging of the Nirbhaya convicts. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar had asserted that AAP is responsible for the delay in justice. On this, Kejriwal said, "He (Prakash Javadekar) is playing politics. Such matters should not be seen as politically. What is our role in this? We do not have the police, neither we have the law and order in our hands. We only send files from here and there." Kejriwal's statement came after President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday rejected the mercy petition of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case convict Mukesh Singh. One of the convicts of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, Mukesh's mercy plea has been rejected by President Kovind, MHA has received the communication in this regard, sources said. The MHA had sent Singh's mercy petition to Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday night, sources said. Earlier, Mukesh Singh, one of the four convicts in the gang-rape and murder of a paramedic student in 2012, had informed the Delhi High Court that his mercy petition is pending before the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and the President of India and he should be given a minimum 14 days notice between the rejection of his mercy petition and scheduled date of execution. The Delhi High Court has refused to set aside the trial court order which issued a death warrant. The court had asked the convict's counsel to approach the trial court and apprise about the pending mercy plea. The four convicts were sentenced to death for raping a 23-year-old woman in a moving bus in the national capital on the intervening night of December 16-17, 2012. The victim, who was later given the name Nirbhaya, had succumbed to injuries at a hospital in Singapore where she had been airlifted for medical treatment.

Delhi government never delayed any work related to 2012 Delhi gang-rape case: Kejriwal

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday flagged off 100 standard floor buses equipped with CCTV cameras and panic button under the cluster scheme from Rajghat Bus Depot.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Congratulations Delhi! Today, 100 new buses were flagged off. 3,000 more buses will be on Delhi's roads in a few months. Just like Delhi is known today for its work in the fields of education, health, Delhi will soon be known for its public bus system."

Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and Delhi transport minister Kailash Gahlot were present at the ceremony.

"Congrats Delhi! Along with CM Arvind Kejriwal &amp; Dy CM M Sisodia flagged off 100 new buses from Rajghat Bus Depot. Supported with CCTV Cameras, Hydraulic Lifts, Panic Buttons - these are new age modern buses for People of Delhi," Gahlot tweeted.

The new buses will operate from the Rani Khera depot, covering various places in the outlying areas of the city.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday flagged off 100 standard floor buses equipped with CCTV cameras and panic button under the cluster scheme from Rajghat Bus Depot.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday flagged off 100 standard floor buses equipped with CCTV cameras and panic button under the cluster scheme from Rajghat Bus Depot. Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Congratulations Delhi! Today, 100 new buses were flagged off. 3,000 more buses will be on Delhi's roads in a few months. Just like Delhi is known today for its work in the fields of education, health, Delhi will soon be known for its public bus system." Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and Delhi transport minister Kailash Gahlot were present at the ceremony. "Congrats Delhi! Along with CM Arvind Kejriwal & Dy CM M Sisodia flagged off 100 new buses from Rajghat Bus Depot. Supported with CCTV Cameras, Hydraulic Lifts, Panic Buttons - these are new age modern buses for People of Delhi," Gahlot tweeted. The new buses will operate from the Rani Khera depot, covering various places in the outlying areas of the city.

Kejriwal flags off 100 new buses in Delhi, says 3,000 more to come

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday urged school children to write letters to the Chief Ministers of Punjab and Haryana urging to take requisite action against stubble burning to curb the menace of air pollution in the national capital.

He blamed that the smoke emanating from crop residue burning in the two states causes pollution in Delhi.

"Please write letters to Captain (Captain Amarinder Singh) uncle and Khattar (Manohar Lal Khattar) uncle and say, 'Please think about our health," Kejriwal said while addressing school children here.

The Delhi chief minister also distributed anti-pollution masks to the school children as a part of the government plan to protect the children from air pollution.

He also urged the school children to request people they know to stop burning of garbage.

"We have to stop burning the garbage in Delhi. If you see anyone doing so, tell them to not do it. If they do not listen to you, there is a WhatsApp number to complain," he said.

CM Kejriwal also addressed the media after his speech in the school and urged them to send out the message to masses to follow the Odd-Even scheme which will be implemented from November 4-15.

"Odd-Even is from Monday and everyone should follow this. It cannot be implemented permanently though. Odd-Even cannot be permanently implemented. We will do our best to make Delhi pollution-free," he said.

According to SAFAR, the overall AQI of Delhi continues to be in the SEVERE category for the fourth consecutive. "The calm surface wind condition that prevails last two days over Delhi has led to strong surface nocturnal inversion and accumulation of pollutants.

Also, the effective stubble fire counts of Northwest India (Haryana and Punjab) has increased from the previous day count of 1057 to 2396, as evident from SAFAR-multi-satellite fire product.

The stubble fire percentage contribution of Delhi's air quality which has touched the season's highest share of 35 per cent on October 30 is predicted to be 27 per cent for today and 25 per cent on November 1. 
An improvement is expected by November 2.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday urged school children to write letters to the Chief Ministers of Punjab and Haryana urging to take requisite action against stubble burning to curb the menace of air pollution in the national capital.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday urged school children to write letters to the Chief Ministers of Punjab and Haryana urging to take requisite action against stubble burning to curb the menace of air pollution in the national capital. He blamed that the smoke emanating from crop residue burning in the two states causes pollution in Delhi. "Please write letters to Captain (Captain Amarinder Singh) uncle and Khattar (Manohar Lal Khattar) uncle and say, 'Please think about our health," Kejriwal said while addressing school children here. The Delhi chief minister also distributed anti-pollution masks to the school children as a part of the government plan to protect the children from air pollution. He also urged the school children to request people they know to stop burning of garbage. "We have to stop burning the garbage in Delhi. If you see anyone doing so, tell them to not do it. If they do not listen to you, there is a WhatsApp number to complain," he said. CM Kejriwal also addressed the media after his speech in the school and urged them to send out the message to masses to follow the Odd-Even scheme which will be implemented from November 4-15. "Odd-Even is from Monday and everyone should follow this. It cannot be implemented permanently though. Odd-Even cannot be permanently implemented. We will do our best to make Delhi pollution-free," he said. According to SAFAR, the overall AQI of Delhi continues to be in the SEVERE category for the fourth consecutive. "The calm surface wind condition that prevails last two days over Delhi has led to strong surface nocturnal inversion and accumulation of pollutants. Also, the effective stubble fire counts of Northwest India (Haryana and Punjab) has increased from the previous day count of 1057 to 2396, as evident from SAFAR-multi-satellite fire product. The stubble fire percentage contribution of Delhi's air quality which has touched the season's highest share of 35 per cent on October 30 is predicted to be 27 per cent for today and 25 per cent on November 1. An improvement is expected by November 2.

Delhi pollution menace: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urges school children to write letters to Punjab, Haryana CMs

The residents of the National Capital Region seem to be getting no respite from the worsening air quality after Diwali. As per the air quality index on Wednesday at Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the major pollutants PM 2.5 was measured at 500 (severe category) while PM 10 was recorded at 379 (very poor category).&nbsp;

Delhi's overall air quality on average was at around 392 this morning under 'very poor' category. Chandni Chowk recorded the highest PM 10 at 673 today with 'severe' category pollution.&nbsp;

Noida's air quality was at 535 at the AQI index (severe) while Gurugram was 'very poor' at 384. &nbsp;

Delhi government, on Tuesday, blamed stubble-burning activities in Delhi's adjoining areas for the dip in the air quality in the national capital.&nbsp;

The Delhi government on Tuesday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nasa-images-show-increase-in-stubble-burning-in-last-24-hours-in-punjab-haryana-delhi-government-258717">latest images from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration</a> (NASA) show a drastic increase in the stubble burning in the last 24 hours in Haryana and Punjab, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

A statement from the office of Delhi's Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot said, "Latest NASA images show a drastic increase in stubble burning in the last 24 hours. Stubble burning counts have increased from 1,654 to 2,577 in Punjab/Haryana in the last 24 hours."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>: Major pollutants PM 2.5 at 500 (severe) and PM 10 at 379 (very poor), in Lodhi Road area, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. <a href="https://t.co/4YCJOnCvoD">pic.twitter.com/4YCJOnCvoD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1189352506373132288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The statement said that wind direction shows stubble plume could increase from Punjab and Haryana, and Delhi facing adverse air quality despite the cleanest Diwali night in the last many years, ANI reported.&nbsp;

"The latest NASA images show a drastic spurt in crop residue burnings (stubble burnings) in the neighbouring states of Delhi, which has severely affected Delhi's air quality.

The stubble plume from north-west regions has become one of the significant factors in adversely affecting Delhi's air quality," the statement read.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday took to Twitter and urged governments of Punjab and Haryana to take concrete steps to avoid Delhi from turning into a gas chamber.&nbsp;

"On behalf of Delhi residents, I appeal to the governments of Punjab Haryana to join hands and take some concrete steps immediately and save Delhi from becoming a gas chamber. At our level, we are making every possible effort and will continue to do so," his tweet read.&nbsp;

The pollution in the national capital and its nearby areas such as Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad and Ghaziabad remained in the 'very poor' category on Tuesday with the Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 392, said Center-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).&nbsp;

Experts suggest there are little chances of smog lifting up in the next couple of days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The residents of the National Capital Region seem to be getting no respite from the worsening air quality after Diwali. As per the air quality index on Wednesday at Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the major pollutants PM 2.

The residents of the National Capital Region seem to be getting no respite from the worsening air quality after Diwali. As per the air quality index on Wednesday at Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the major pollutants PM 2.5 was measured at 500 (severe category) while PM 10 was recorded at 379 (very poor category). Delhi's overall air quality on average was at around 392 this morning under 'very poor' category. Chandni Chowk recorded the highest PM 10 at 673 today with 'severe' category pollution. Noida's air quality was at 535 at the AQI index (severe) while Gurugram was 'very poor' at 384. Delhi government, on Tuesday, blamed stubble-burning activities in Delhi's adjoining areas for the dip in the air quality in the national capital. The Delhi government on Tuesday said that the latest images from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) show a drastic increase in the stubble burning in the last 24 hours in Haryana and Punjab, news agency ANI reported. A statement from the office of Delhi's Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot said, "Latest NASA images show a drastic increase in stubble burning in the last 24 hours. Stubble burning counts have increased from 1,654 to 2,577 in Punjab/Haryana in the last 24 hours." #Delhi: Major pollutants PM 2.5 at 500 (severe) and PM 10 at 379 (very poor), in Lodhi Road area, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. pic.twitter.com/4YCJOnCvoD — ANI (@ANI) October 30, 2019 × The statement said that wind direction shows stubble plume could increase from Punjab and Haryana, and Delhi facing adverse air quality despite the cleanest Diwali night in the last many years, ANI reported. "The latest NASA images show a drastic spurt in crop residue burnings (stubble burnings) in the neighbouring states of Delhi, which has severely affected Delhi's air quality. The stubble plume from north-west regions has become one of the significant factors in adversely affecting Delhi's air quality," the statement read. Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday took to Twitter and urged governments of Punjab and Haryana to take concrete steps to avoid Delhi from turning into a gas chamber. "On behalf of Delhi residents, I appeal to the governments of Punjab Haryana to join hands and take some concrete steps immediately and save Delhi from becoming a gas chamber. At our level, we are making every possible effort and will continue to do so," his tweet read. The pollution in the national capital and its nearby areas such as Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad and Ghaziabad remained in the 'very poor' category on Tuesday with the Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 392, said Center-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). Experts suggest there are little chances of smog lifting up in the next couple of days. (With inputs from ANI)

'Save Delhi from becoming gas chamber,' Kejriwal urges neighbouring governments to take concrete steps

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that Delhi government would organise "pollution-free" Diwali celebration in a grand manner at Connaught Place from October 26 to 29.&nbsp;

The celebration will feature laser shows and cultural activities.

Addressing a press conference with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Kejriwal said, "We have planned to celebrate Diwali on a grand scale at Connaught Place. We would like every Delhite to come and celebrate a pollution-free Diwali."

"Connaught Place will be illuminated with lasers and lighting shows. One cycle of laser show will last one hour. It will be running back to back from 6 pm to 10 pm. There is a provision of passes. All are invited," he added.

Kejriwal further announced that art and culture events and food court will also feature during the celebrations.

"Our aim is to celebrate a pollution-free Diwali together as one family. We hope that after this, there will be no need to burst crackers," said Kejriwal.

Deputy Chief Sisodia said that the aim of the exercise is to reduce the use of crackers and celebrate a pollution-free Diwali.

"Every year, there is a discussion on the next day of Diwali on the pollution caused by crackers. I appeal to the people of Delhi to come together and celebrate Diwali as a community," he said.

" If our experiment at Connaught Place is successful, we may replicate this at other places in the national capital as well," said Sisodia.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that Delhi government would organise "pollution-free" Diwali celebration in a grand manner at Connaught Place from October 26 to 29.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that Delhi government would organise "pollution-free" Diwali celebration in a grand manner at Connaught Place from October 26 to 29. The celebration will feature laser shows and cultural activities. Addressing a press conference with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Kejriwal said, "We have planned to celebrate Diwali on a grand scale at Connaught Place. We would like every Delhite to come and celebrate a pollution-free Diwali." "Connaught Place will be illuminated with lasers and lighting shows. One cycle of laser show will last one hour. It will be running back to back from 6 pm to 10 pm. There is a provision of passes. All are invited," he added. Kejriwal further announced that art and culture events and food court will also feature during the celebrations. "Our aim is to celebrate a pollution-free Diwali together as one family. We hope that after this, there will be no need to burst crackers," said Kejriwal. Deputy Chief Sisodia said that the aim of the exercise is to reduce the use of crackers and celebrate a pollution-free Diwali. "Every year, there is a discussion on the next day of Diwali on the pollution caused by crackers. I appeal to the people of Delhi to come together and celebrate Diwali as a community," he said. " If our experiment at Connaught Place is successful, we may replicate this at other places in the national capital as well," said Sisodia.

Grand pollution-free Diwali celebrations at Connaught Place from October 26 to 29, announces Kejriwal

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday took a jibe at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for blaming farmers for the increase in the pollution levels.

Speaking to media persons here, Tiwari said, "Whenever the pollution level shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers for burning their stubble. No stubble is being burnt anywhere. The pollution is because of the increase in traffic on the roads and burning of garbage by the people of the city."

Tiwari also hailed the Indian Army for destroying terror launch pads located in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).&nbsp;

"India has lost its patience and now the terrorists will not be spared," he said.

The Indian Army, today, started using artillery guns to target terrorist camps in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) which have been actively trying to push terrorists into Indian Territory.

Four terror launch pads in Neelam valley of PoK were targeted and fatalities have been reported, sources said.

This comes after an unprovoked ceasefire violation was started by the Pakistani side to push infiltrators into the Indian side.&nbsp;

Two Indian soldiers and a civilian were killed in firing by Pakistan Army in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir.In retaliation, the Indian Army inflicted heavy damages and casualties on the Pakistan side.&nbsp;

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday took a jibe at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for blaming farmers for the increase in the pollution levels. Speaking to media persons here, Tiwari said, "Whenever the pollution level shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers for burning their stubble.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday took a jibe at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for blaming farmers for the increase in the pollution levels. Speaking to media persons here, Tiwari said, "Whenever the pollution level shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers for burning their stubble. No stubble is being burnt anywhere. The pollution is because of the increase in traffic on the roads and burning of garbage by the people of the city." Tiwari also hailed the Indian Army for destroying terror launch pads located in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). "India has lost its patience and now the terrorists will not be spared," he said. The Indian Army, today, started using artillery guns to target terrorist camps in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) which have been actively trying to push terrorists into Indian Territory. Four terror launch pads in Neelam valley of PoK were targeted and fatalities have been reported, sources said. This comes after an unprovoked ceasefire violation was started by the Pakistani side to push infiltrators into the Indian side. Two Indian soldiers and a civilian were killed in firing by Pakistan Army in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir.In retaliation, the Indian Army inflicted heavy damages and casualties on the Pakistan side.

Whenever pollution levels shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers: Manoj Tiwari

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Friday sent a legal notice to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his statement that if National Register of Citizens (NRC) was carried out in national capital then the former would be the first one to leave Delhi.

The legal notice stated that Kejriwal`s statement against Bihar born MP Tiwari is "false, unverified, misleading deliberately" and was made with the sole intention to spread misinformation with the objective of "creating a law and order situation in Delhi".

It said that despite being fully aware of NRC objectives, Kejriwal deliberately made the above said statement with mala fide intention to cause or which is likely to cause, "fear or alarm to the public, or to any section of the public whereby any person may be induced to commit an offence against the state or the public tranquillity."

The notice was also issued to AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj for allegedly spreading "rumours" that people from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha will be evicted if the NRC is implemented in the city.

The notice read that the remarks by Kejriwal and Bhardwaj will "incite feelings of enmity, hatred and ill will between two communities and the people coming from Eastern part of India to commit any offence against the people of Delhi".

It sought an apology from both AAP leaders within in 2 days stating that their comments are a punishable offence under Indian Penal Code (IPC).

"You are hereby called upon to apologise and publish your apology in at least two leading newspaper, with prominence within 2 days from the receipt of this legal notice failing which the undersigned shall initiate legal actions including, both civil and criminal," it said.

Tiwari had earlier demanded that the NRC is needed in Delhi as illegal immigrants who have settled here are `dangerous and the demand will be part of the party`s election manifesto for the Assembly polls next year.

The NRC has been developed with the aim of segregating Indian citizens from illegal migrants.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Friday sent a legal notice to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his statement that if National Register of Citizens (NRC) was carried out in national capital then the former would be the first one to leave Delhi.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Friday sent a legal notice to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his statement that if National Register of Citizens (NRC) was carried out in national capital then the former would be the first one to leave Delhi. The legal notice stated that Kejriwal`s statement against Bihar born MP Tiwari is "false, unverified, misleading deliberately" and was made with the sole intention to spread misinformation with the objective of "creating a law and order situation in Delhi". It said that despite being fully aware of NRC objectives, Kejriwal deliberately made the above said statement with mala fide intention to cause or which is likely to cause, "fear or alarm to the public, or to any section of the public whereby any person may be induced to commit an offence against the state or the public tranquillity." The notice was also issued to AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj for allegedly spreading "rumours" that people from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha will be evicted if the NRC is implemented in the city. The notice read that the remarks by Kejriwal and Bhardwaj will "incite feelings of enmity, hatred and ill will between two communities and the people coming from Eastern part of India to commit any offence against the people of Delhi". It sought an apology from both AAP leaders within in 2 days stating that their comments are a punishable offence under Indian Penal Code (IPC). "You are hereby called upon to apologise and publish your apology in at least two leading newspaper, with prominence within 2 days from the receipt of this legal notice failing which the undersigned shall initiate legal actions including, both civil and criminal," it said. Tiwari had earlier demanded that the NRC is needed in Delhi as illegal immigrants who have settled here are `dangerous and the demand will be part of the party`s election manifesto for the Assembly polls next year. The NRC has been developed with the aim of segregating Indian citizens from illegal migrants.

Manoj Tiwari serves legal notice to Kejriwal, AAP MLA over NRC remarks, seeks apology within 2 days

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday thanked the Central government for its efforts to curb pollution in the national capital.

The Chief Minister, in particular, pointed out the construction of Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway saying that it has led to a decline in trucks coming inside Delhi, consequently leading to a reduction in pollution levels.

"This (reduction in pollution levels) has not been only due to the efforts of the Delhi government. I want to thank all the agencies involved in the efforts. This has been due to efforts of the Delhi government. We want to thank the Central government for their efforts, MCDs for their efforts. The Supreme Court passed so many orders which we followed religiously," the Chief Minister said while addressing a press conference.

He also thanked the people of Delhi for supporting the efforts to combat pollution.

"The construction of Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway is one of the reasons for the decline in pollution. Apart from this, environmental compensation charges were levied. So, trucks began to use roads outside Delhi. The number of trucks entering Delhi reduced by 30 per cent due to Eastern Peripheral Expressway," he said.

Terming it a "big number", the Chief Minister said, "This is a big number. I think the numbers would be even higher for Western Peripheral. Both of these have been constructed by the Central government and we would like to thank them on behalf of people of Delhi for this.

"Earlier, the Chief Minister had announced that pollution in Delhi has reduced by 25 per cent in the last three years.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday thanked the Central government for its efforts to curb pollution in the national capital. The Chief Minister, in particular, pointed out the construction of Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway saying that it has led to a decline in trucks coming inside Delhi, consequently leading to a reduction in pollution levels.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday thanked the Central government for its efforts to curb pollution in the national capital. The Chief Minister, in particular, pointed out the construction of Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway saying that it has led to a decline in trucks coming inside Delhi, consequently leading to a reduction in pollution levels. "This (reduction in pollution levels) has not been only due to the efforts of the Delhi government. I want to thank all the agencies involved in the efforts. This has been due to efforts of the Delhi government. We want to thank the Central government for their efforts, MCDs for their efforts. The Supreme Court passed so many orders which we followed religiously," the Chief Minister said while addressing a press conference. He also thanked the people of Delhi for supporting the efforts to combat pollution. "The construction of Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway is one of the reasons for the decline in pollution. Apart from this, environmental compensation charges were levied. So, trucks began to use roads outside Delhi. The number of trucks entering Delhi reduced by 30 per cent due to Eastern Peripheral Expressway," he said. Terming it a "big number", the Chief Minister said, "This is a big number. I think the numbers would be even higher for Western Peripheral. Both of these have been constructed by the Central government and we would like to thank them on behalf of people of Delhi for this. "Earlier, the Chief Minister had announced that pollution in Delhi has reduced by 25 per cent in the last three years.

CM Kejriwal thanks Centre for efforts to combat pollution in Delhi

AAP member Atishi Friday hit out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/metro-man-sreedharan-requests-pm-narendra-modi-not-to-agree-to-delhi-governments-free-travel-scheme-for-women-227161">'Metro Man' E Sreedharan</a> for calling the Delhi government's proposal of free rides to women in metro an "election gimmick", saying the BJP was using his shoulder to convey its message.&nbsp;

In a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the former DMRC chief said free travel will "worsen overcrowding" and "lead to mishaps".&nbsp;

He alleged that the Delhi government's proposal of free travel for women is an "election gimmick" and urged the Kejriwal dispensation to "not destroy" the efficient and successful public transport system for electoral gains.

Hitting back, Atishi said the party is surprised that a respected person like him has written a "political letter" and the AAP feels like BJP is using Sreedharan's shoulder for conveying its message.

"Sreedharan ji has said that the move would be a financial burden on DMRC. I want to ask when last year, the Centre proposed to make metro rides free for senior citizens and students, why did not he raise any objection?" she said.

"If you look at the central government's proposal, you will see that it was a model of cross-subsidy, which means all other people would bear the subsidy of students and senior citizens. Why no objection on this?" the 37-year-old Oxford scholar said.

Secondly, in airport metro lines, several financial irregularities surfaced and the Delhi government gave a detailed report on it and a CBI inquiry was proposed, but it was stalled by the government, Atishi alleged.

"When this metro line was being made, Sreedharan ji was in-charge of Delhi metro, and if financial irregularities were taking place, why did not he raise his voice? Is the BJP protecting all the administrators by not conducting a CBI inquiry into the matter? Is this the reason the BJP is able to use Sreedharan ji for putting out their voice?" the AAP leader, who fought the Lok Sabha elections from the East Delhi seat, said.

"Third issue - he (Sreedharan) said (Sisodia's) comment that DMRC is using 65 per cent of its capacity is wrong and he is lying on the DPR report... Our question to you is whether the DPR project report on the basis of which the state and Centre decide their share...Is he implying that the figure of riders and the whole funding given on the basis of this report is wrong?" she said.

Quoting several international research studies on women's mobility and access to economic opportunities, Atishi said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has based its proposal on such studies.&nbsp;

"Women are a very small fraction of the country's workforce. Most women work in small and medium-sized enterprises. They do not have the financial independence to travel freely and many times have to ask their families for money to travel. When travel for women becomes free, it significantly increases their access to opportunities, as the World Bank and UNDP reports have suggested," she said.&nbsp;

She said a McKinsey Global report said India's GDP will grow by 16-20 per cent if women participation in the economy will be at par with men.&nbsp;

"The lack of access to public transport is one of the top impediments to the participation of women in the workforce," she added.

Reiterating the party's strong women security pitch, Atishi said, "Women feel much more secure when the presence of women grows in public spaces. We do not need just special coaches, we need 50 per cent occupancy of women in the Metro."

In an appeal to Sreedharan to not allow himself to be used by the BJP for their political agenda, Atishi said, "You are such a well-respected person, why are you allowing the BJP to fire from your shoulder to stall women's empowerment and development? The BJP is a party that wants women to stay at home, not wear jeans, and is opposed to women being independent. Why are you supporting such a regressive mentality?"&nbsp;

AAP member Atishi Friday hit out at 'Metro Man' E Sreedharan for calling the Delhi government's proposal of free rides to women in metro an "election gimmick", saying the BJP was using his shoulder to convey its message.

AAP member Atishi Friday hit out at 'Metro Man' E Sreedharan for calling the Delhi government's proposal of free rides to women in metro an "election gimmick", saying the BJP was using his shoulder to convey its message. In a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the former DMRC chief said free travel will "worsen overcrowding" and "lead to mishaps". He alleged that the Delhi government's proposal of free travel for women is an "election gimmick" and urged the Kejriwal dispensation to "not destroy" the efficient and successful public transport system for electoral gains. Hitting back, Atishi said the party is surprised that a respected person like him has written a "political letter" and the AAP feels like BJP is using Sreedharan's shoulder for conveying its message. "Sreedharan ji has said that the move would be a financial burden on DMRC. I want to ask when last year, the Centre proposed to make metro rides free for senior citizens and students, why did not he raise any objection?" she said. "If you look at the central government's proposal, you will see that it was a model of cross-subsidy, which means all other people would bear the subsidy of students and senior citizens. Why no objection on this?" the 37-year-old Oxford scholar said. Secondly, in airport metro lines, several financial irregularities surfaced and the Delhi government gave a detailed report on it and a CBI inquiry was proposed, but it was stalled by the government, Atishi alleged. "When this metro line was being made, Sreedharan ji was in-charge of Delhi metro, and if financial irregularities were taking place, why did not he raise his voice? Is the BJP protecting all the administrators by not conducting a CBI inquiry into the matter? Is this the reason the BJP is able to use Sreedharan ji for putting out their voice?" the AAP leader, who fought the Lok Sabha elections from the East Delhi seat, said. "Third issue - he (Sreedharan) said (Sisodia's) comment that DMRC is using 65 per cent of its capacity is wrong and he is lying on the DPR report... Our question to you is whether the DPR project report on the basis of which the state and Centre decide their share...Is he implying that the figure of riders and the whole funding given on the basis of this report is wrong?" she said. Quoting several international research studies on women's mobility and access to economic opportunities, Atishi said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has based its proposal on such studies. "Women are a very small fraction of the country's workforce. Most women work in small and medium-sized enterprises. They do not have the financial independence to travel freely and many times have to ask their families for money to travel. When travel for women becomes free, it significantly increases their access to opportunities, as the World Bank and UNDP reports have suggested," she said. She said a McKinsey Global report said India's GDP will grow by 16-20 per cent if women participation in the economy will be at par with men. "The lack of access to public transport is one of the top impediments to the participation of women in the workforce," she added. Reiterating the party's strong women security pitch, Atishi said, "Women feel much more secure when the presence of women grows in public spaces. We do not need just special coaches, we need 50 per cent occupancy of women in the Metro." In an appeal to Sreedharan to not allow himself to be used by the BJP for their political agenda, Atishi said, "You are such a well-respected person, why are you allowing the BJP to fire from your shoulder to stall women's empowerment and development? The BJP is a party that wants women to stay at home, not wear jeans, and is opposed to women being independent. Why are you supporting such a regressive mentality?"

'Metro Man' Sreedharan being used by BJP to convey its message, Atishi hits back

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that his government is prepared to deal with the challenge of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/176-dengue-cases-reported-in-delhi-last-week-9072-this-year-25823">dengue</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chikungunya-outbreak-panic-a-bigger-cause-for-worry-than-fever-say-doctors-6532">chikungunya </a>-- two water-borne diseases which hit the city-state every year during the monsoon.

Asking the people to take preventive measures, Chief Minister Kejriwal said, "We are ready to face any challenges this year."

"The monsoon is about to reach Delhi. There are heavy chances of diseases like chikungunya and dengue. We wish you and your family a healthy life," he said.

Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with the officials of all departments concerned and reviewed the preparedness to deal with vector-borne diseases effectively.&nbsp;

As many as 2,700 cases of dengue were reported last year as compared to 15,000 cases in 2015. "We will try our best this year to keep the number low," said Kejriwal in the tweet.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that his government is prepared to deal with the challenge of dengue and chikungunya -- two water-borne diseases which hit the city-state every year during the monsoon.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that his government is prepared to deal with the challenge of dengue and chikungunya -- two water-borne diseases which hit the city-state every year during the monsoon. Asking the people to take preventive measures, Chief Minister Kejriwal said, "We are ready to face any challenges this year." "The monsoon is about to reach Delhi. There are heavy chances of diseases like chikungunya and dengue. We wish you and your family a healthy life," he said. Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with the officials of all departments concerned and reviewed the preparedness to deal with vector-borne diseases effectively. As many as 2,700 cases of dengue were reported last year as compared to 15,000 cases in 2015. "We will try our best this year to keep the number low," said Kejriwal in the tweet.

We are prepared to deal with challenge of dengue, chikungunya: Kejriwal

Hours after Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-kejriwal-announces-free-travel-for-women-in-delhi-metro-dtc-buses-223816">Arvind Kejriwal announced free ride for women</a> in DTC buses, cluster buses and metro trains, BJP state unit chief Manoj Tiwari on Monday questioned the timing of the scheme and called it as another attempt to mislead people.

"Delhi's 'ghoshnamantri'&nbsp;has made new announcements. He has been labelled as 'nakampanthi'. They deceived people with 70 promises. It has been 52 months of AAP government and they have only eight months left. Suddenly, they thought of announcing new schemes otherwise they would lose their ground in Delhi," he told reporters in a press conference.

"We are not opposing the idea but something that couldn`t even be started in 52 months, how can it be done in 5-6 months? Arvind Kejriwal is only trying to deceive people," he added.

The decision comes ten days after the ruling AAP suffered a massive defeat and lost all seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi in the general elections.

The party contested 40 seats across nine states and Union Territories and could win only one seat-Sangrur in Punjab.

Tiwari alleged that the scheme is an attempt to buy votes.

"This is only a beginning, there would be many announcements in the coming time. They had said that they will win 7 Lok Sabha seats but later he said that this was not their election. They are trying to buy votes," he said.

"For 1.5 crore women in Delhi, there are only 3,800 buses. He had promised to deploy Marshals for the safety of women and panic buttons in buses, it seems he himself is now panicking. He cannot understand what new tactic to use to mislead people of Delhi," the BJP leader said.

Tiwari, who won the parliamentary seat of North East Delhi, said that BJP will bring a scheme in which no one has to pay for tickets in buses if voted to power in the national capital.&nbsp;

Hours after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced free ride for women in DTC buses, cluster buses and metro trains, BJP state unit chief Manoj Tiwari on Monday questioned the timing of the scheme and called it as another attempt to mislead people.

Hours after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced free ride for women in DTC buses, cluster buses and metro trains, BJP state unit chief Manoj Tiwari on Monday questioned the timing of the scheme and called it as another attempt to mislead people. "Delhi's 'ghoshnamantri' has made new announcements. He has been labelled as 'nakampanthi'. They deceived people with 70 promises. It has been 52 months of AAP government and they have only eight months left. Suddenly, they thought of announcing new schemes otherwise they would lose their ground in Delhi," he told reporters in a press conference. "We are not opposing the idea but something that couldn`t even be started in 52 months, how can it be done in 5-6 months? Arvind Kejriwal is only trying to deceive people," he added. The decision comes ten days after the ruling AAP suffered a massive defeat and lost all seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi in the general elections. The party contested 40 seats across nine states and Union Territories and could win only one seat-Sangrur in Punjab. Tiwari alleged that the scheme is an attempt to buy votes. "This is only a beginning, there would be many announcements in the coming time. They had said that they will win 7 Lok Sabha seats but later he said that this was not their election. They are trying to buy votes," he said. "For 1.5 crore women in Delhi, there are only 3,800 buses. He had promised to deploy Marshals for the safety of women and panic buttons in buses, it seems he himself is now panicking. He cannot understand what new tactic to use to mislead people of Delhi," the BJP leader said. Tiwari, who won the parliamentary seat of North East Delhi, said that BJP will bring a scheme in which no one has to pay for tickets in buses if voted to power in the national capital.

'Free ride scheme' an attempt to mislead people: Manoj Tiwari

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba launched a veiled attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over AAP's crushing loss in Lok Sabha elections, asking shouldn't the person who took all the decisions in a closed room own the responsibility and quit.

She lashed out at her party after she was again removed from AAP's MLA WhatsApp group, which includes Kejriwal.

Without naming him, Lamba said that at a time when the party came third in the CM's constituency, lost in all 70 assembly segments and lost its security deposit, shouldn't the person, who sat in a closed room and took all decisions on alliance and candidates, quit.

"Kejriwal ji, you are yourself admitting that you made very big mistakes due to which the party fared badly in the Lok Sabha polls. Without looking at the mistakes made by the party you have asked us to apologise to people. We should introspect on the mistakes," she said.

AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj said that the party did not want to comment on her.

"She is an attention-seeker. Some MLAs had raised a point that some people are unhappy about a few local works in their area. To that the chief minister had asked them to meet such people with humility, assure them of speedy work and apologise for inconvenience," he said.

Sharing screenshots of the WhatsApp group on Twitter, which purportedly shows that she was removed by AAP's North East Delhi candidate Dilip Pandey, Lamba asked why was she being held responsible for the party's crushing loss in the Lok Sabha elections.

Pandey did not respond on the matter.

"I have always been telling the party what you (Kejriwal) are telling them now. I am sometimes added to the group, sometimes removed. It would have been better if a meeting was held to introspect, look at the shortcomings and move ahead," she said.

Lamba claimed that she had raised questions about the party performance in the Lok Sabha polls which did not go down well with the AAP.

The MLA from Chandni Chowk also claimed that some legislators had told her that her tweet praising Naveen Patnaik, for winning the fifth term as chief minister of Odisha, was not appreciated by party leaders.

The AAP suffered a crushing defeat in the polls and lost on all seven seats in Delhi with a margin of lakhs of votes.

This is the second time that Lamba has been dropped from the group. She was earlier dropped in December last year when she raised objection over the party's resolution to revoke Rajiv Gandhi's Bharat Ratna.

However, she was added before poll campaigning and was expected to campaign for the party. But Lamba refused and even refrained from participating in Kejriwal's roadshow after she was asked to walk behind his car during the show.

In April, Lamba engaged in a bitter Twitter spat with Bharadwaj, who had taunted her to resign from the party.

Following the spat, she addressed a large crowd outside Jama Masjid and said the party was repeatedly demanding her resignation.

She had alleged that the party leadership was "weakening" her and said she was being accused of attempting to switch over to the Congress. 
Before joining the AAP, Lamba was part of the Congress women's wing.

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba launched a veiled attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over AAP's crushing loss in Lok Sabha elections, asking shouldn't the person who took all the decisions in a closed room own the responsibility and quit.

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba launched a veiled attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over AAP's crushing loss in Lok Sabha elections, asking shouldn't the person who took all the decisions in a closed room own the responsibility and quit. She lashed out at her party after she was again removed from AAP's MLA WhatsApp group, which includes Kejriwal. Without naming him, Lamba said that at a time when the party came third in the CM's constituency, lost in all 70 assembly segments and lost its security deposit, shouldn't the person, who sat in a closed room and took all decisions on alliance and candidates, quit. "Kejriwal ji, you are yourself admitting that you made very big mistakes due to which the party fared badly in the Lok Sabha polls. Without looking at the mistakes made by the party you have asked us to apologise to people. We should introspect on the mistakes," she said. AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj said that the party did not want to comment on her. "She is an attention-seeker. Some MLAs had raised a point that some people are unhappy about a few local works in their area. To that the chief minister had asked them to meet such people with humility, assure them of speedy work and apologise for inconvenience," he said. Sharing screenshots of the WhatsApp group on Twitter, which purportedly shows that she was removed by AAP's North East Delhi candidate Dilip Pandey, Lamba asked why was she being held responsible for the party's crushing loss in the Lok Sabha elections. Pandey did not respond on the matter. "I have always been telling the party what you (Kejriwal) are telling them now. I am sometimes added to the group, sometimes removed. It would have been better if a meeting was held to introspect, look at the shortcomings and move ahead," she said. Lamba claimed that she had raised questions about the party performance in the Lok Sabha polls which did not go down well with the AAP. The MLA from Chandni Chowk also claimed that some legislators had told her that her tweet praising Naveen Patnaik, for winning the fifth term as chief minister of Odisha, was not appreciated by party leaders. The AAP suffered a crushing defeat in the polls and lost on all seven seats in Delhi with a margin of lakhs of votes. This is the second time that Lamba has been dropped from the group. She was earlier dropped in December last year when she raised objection over the party's resolution to revoke Rajiv Gandhi's Bharat Ratna. However, she was added before poll campaigning and was expected to campaign for the party. But Lamba refused and even refrained from participating in Kejriwal's roadshow after she was asked to walk behind his car during the show. In April, Lamba engaged in a bitter Twitter spat with Bharadwaj, who had taunted her to resign from the party. Following the spat, she addressed a large crowd outside Jama Masjid and said the party was repeatedly demanding her resignation. She had alleged that the party leadership was "weakening" her and said she was being accused of attempting to switch over to the Congress. Before joining the AAP, Lamba was part of the Congress women's wing.

Disgruntled AAP MLA Alka Lamba seeks accountability from Kejriwal in Lok Sabha polls

kejriwal

Kejriwal, News on Kejriwal, stories on Kejriwal, articles on Kejriwal, Kejriwal stories at Wion, Kejriwal news, Kejriwal latest news