The News Freedom
New Delhi, February 8
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday vowed to make the Yamuna River the “pride and identity of Delhi,” addressing party workers at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters after the party’s landmark victory. “I pledged during the campaign that we will restore the Yamuna to its glory,” Modi said, reviving a controversy over pollution in the river that had sparked tensions between the BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ahead of the elections.
Modi hailed the victory as a mandate for development and governance. “Today, the people of Delhi feel both enthusiasm and relief—relief from AAP’s misgovernance,” he said.
Praising Delhi’s diversity, he called the capital a “Mini India,” attributing the BJP’s win to widespread public trust.
Criticism of AAP
Modi accused AAP of obstructing development. “Delhi faced roadblocks in metro expansion, housing, and healthcare due to AAP’s politics of protest. The BJP will ensure stable governance,” he said.
He linked the victory to broader BJP successes in states like Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, and Haryana. Modi also referenced BJP’s win in Ayodhya’s Milkipur, reinforcing the party’s electoral strength.
Support from Women and the Poor
He credited women voters for BJP’s success. “Women have placed their trust in me. Every promise will be fulfilled. This is Modi ki Guarantee!” he said.
Modi also reaffirmed his commitment to modernizing Delhi’s infrastructure and employment opportunities while pledging to clean the Yamuna River.
“We bow to Maa Yamuna, the giver of prosperity. But those in power let pollution take over,” he said.
Corruption Allegations
Modi criticized AAP leaders, alleging corruption. “AAP was born from an anti-corruption movement but has been consumed by corruption. This is the only party whose Chief Ministers and Ministers have gone to jail for graft. Delhi’s trust was betrayed,” he said.
He promised a probe into financial irregularities. “The CAG report will be tabled in the first Assembly session. Every corruption link will be investigated,” he declared.
Congress Criticism
Taking aim at the Congress party, Modi called it a “parasitic party.” “Congress does not just sink itself; it drags its allies down,” he said, citing Congress’s electoral failures in Delhi.
Modi accused Congress of exploiting regional allies. “It hijacks issues and vote banks in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and Bengal,” he said.
He also alleged Congress’s alignment with “Urban Naxal” ideology. “Congress leaders speak against Bharat, against the Indian state. This is the language of Naxalites and anarchy,” he claimed.
Youth in Politics
Calling for fresh political leadership, Modi urged one lakh young people to enter politics. “India needs new energy and ideas. If capable youth do not step in, the wrong people will take over,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Modi concluded by calling for collective efforts toward Delhi’s transformation. “This victory comes with new responsibilities. BJP guarantees reform and performance. With public participation, Delhi will develop at a rapid pace,” he said.