Will AAP's Major Protest Against Bulldozer Politics Make an Impact?

Synopsis
On June 29, AAP plans a significant protest against the demolitions of slum clusters in Delhi. Saurabh Bharadwaj criticizes the BJP's policies and urges unity among the urban poor. This event raises crucial questions about housing rights and government accountability in the capital.
Key Takeaways
- AAP is organizing a protest against slum demolitions in Delhi.
- The protest aims to highlight the plight of slum dwellers and demand justice.
- Saurabh Bharadwaj criticizes the BJP for failing to protect urban poor.
- Demolitions are ongoing amid heavy police presence.
- Concerns are raised about the government's compliance with court orders.
New Delhi, June 12 (NationPress) Intensifying its criticism of the Chief Minister Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government for what it describes as 'anti-poor policies', the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) announced a significant protest against the demolition of slum clusters in the national capital on Thursday.
AAP Delhi unit President Saurabh Bharadwaj stated that the party will orchestrate a large demonstration at Jantar Mantar on June 29 at 10 AM, advocating for justice for millions of slum inhabitants. Bharadwaj accused the BJP-led Delhi government of deceiving the urban poor.
"The BJP promised 'Jaha Jhuggi, Wahan Makaan' but is instead demolishing homes without providing alternative housing," he stated.
He referenced the devastating incident in Bawana, where a fire in a slum claimed the lives of two children, highlighting the absence of any minister or MLA's visit to the scene.
"Shockingly, just two days later, bulldozers were dispatched to raze the entire cluster," he alleged, raising concerns about whether the fire was part of a broader conspiracy.
Bharadwaj also mentioned the destruction of over 800 homes in the historic Madarasi Camp, where generations of Tamil families have resided for decades, despite holding housing guarantee cards.
He challenged the ruling BJP to enact legislation in Parliament to safeguard slums.
"The BJP cannot conceal itself behind court decisions. They are neither approaching the Supreme Court nor formulating laws to protect the underprivileged," he remarked.
Calling for solidarity, he urged all slum dwellers to participate in the June 29 protest and reveal the BJP's 'bulldozer politics' to the nation.
It's significant to note that the issue of slum demolitions has become a contentious matter for the BJP, as both AAP and Congress have criticized the ruling party for neglecting to protect slum residents in the national capital.
Bharadwaj's remarks came as authorities initiated a demolition drive in the Bhoomiheen camp in southeast Delhi's Govindpuri area on June 11 morning, under heavy police presence.
However, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta asserted on June 8 that the authorities must comply with demolition orders issued by the courts and emphasized that displaced residents have received accommodation.