Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva recently experienced respiratory issues and skin rashes after taking a dip in the heavily polluted Yamuna River. This act was part of a protest highlighting the alleged failure of the Delhi government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), to fulfill its promise of cleaning the river by 2025. After the dip, Sachdeva reported health concerns, including mild breathing problems and skin irritation, for which he was examined and treated at RML Hospital. Doctors prescribed a three-day course of medication to alleviate his symptoms.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) responded to Sachdeva’s health issues by criticizing former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, accusing him of negligence regarding the river’s condition. BJP spokespersons condemned the pollution levels in the Yamuna and claimed that the promised cleanup efforts have been inadequate and mismanaged.
They should account for the ₹8,500 crores given by the Central government to clean the YamunaVirendra Sachdeva
In response, AAP's Environment Minister Gopal Rai dismissed Sachdeva’s actions as “drama,” alleging that the BJP was amplifying the issue for political gain. Rai countered that the BJP was using the pollution problem to create sensationalism, while his government had consistently worked on pollution control and environmental conservation initiatives in Delhi.
During his visit to the Yamuna, Sachdeva challenged Kejriwal and current Chief Minister Atishi to inspect the river personally. In a statement made at the ITO ghat, Sachdeva called on both leaders to witness the pollution firsthand, claiming that the AAP government’s mismanagement and alleged “corruption” had drained funds that could have gone toward the river’s cleanup. Emphasizing the central government's financial support for the Yamuna, Sachdeva stated, “They should account for the ₹8,500 crores given by the Central government to clean the Yamuna.”
The BJP is creating a ‘drama’ out of Delhi’s pollution levels to intensify political tensionsGopal Rai, AAP Environment Minister
Sachdeva further remarked on Atishi’s preference for elaborate accommodations, sarcastically referring to Kejriwal’s residence, known as 'Sheesh Mahal.' Sachdeva remarked that he had set up a red carpet and arranged chairs for Atishi and Kejriwal if they were to accept his invitation to inspect the river’s state. The gesture symbolized Sachdeva’s disapproval of the AAP’s priorities, suggesting that the party focused on luxury rather than essential public needs.
He concluded by reminding Kejriwal, who is currently on bail, of his previous role as Delhi’s chief minister and urging him to address the matter sincerely.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)