BJP's Bansuri Swaraj Criticizes AAP Government for Failing to Implement Ayushman Bharat Scheme in Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Bansuri Swaraj has delivered strong criticism towards the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi for their failure to implement the 'Ayushman Bharat Scheme', asserting that they are denying Delhi's residents access to one of the largest health initiatives globally.

Bansuri Swaraj, the Lok Sabha MP representing New Delhi, addressed the issue on Thursday, condemning the AAP government for not rolling out the scheme in the city, despite its extensive advantages throughout the country.

"Ayushman Bharat, initiated by PM Modi, stands as one of the largest health benefit schemes worldwide, providing Rs 5 lakh in health coverage for free to each beneficiary. Regrettably, the AAP government in Delhi is obstructing the implementation of this scheme here," she stated.

During her remarks on the campaign launched by Delhi BJP, she continued, "Today, State President Virendra Sachdeva has initiated a signature campaign aimed at gathering support from residents who will consent to the implementation of this scheme."

Earlier on Thursday, BJP Delhi President Virendra Sachdeva commenced a signature campaign to bring this critical issue to the public's attention.

The BJP is actively seeking public backing to pressure the Delhi government into implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme and extending its benefits to the people of Delhi.

Virendra Sachdeva also criticized the AAP for neglecting the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in Delhi, despite its potential benefits for millions nationwide.

"The Ayushman Bharat Scheme is a key initiative from the Prime Minister that has positively impacted countless individuals across the country. Unfortunately, the AAP in Delhi is not facilitating its rollout. We have even pursued legal action over this issue, and the hearing is currently in progress. Our goal is to ensure the people of Delhi can benefit from this scheme," he remarked.

BJP MPs Ravi Kishan and Manoj Tiwari have also condemned the Delhi government for not executing the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, accusing it of denying essential healthcare benefits to the city's underprivileged.

Kishan pointed out that in states governed by the BJP, individuals are receiving free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh, while the impoverished in Delhi are missing out on these benefits. They also announced a signature campaign to urge the Delhi government to adopt the scheme.

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana is a national health insurance initiative designed to provide free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh for economically disadvantaged families.

While BJP MPs advocate for its implementation in Delhi, Chief Minister Atishi of the AAP stated that her government is prepared to implement the scheme, albeit with certain reservations.

On November 28, the Delhi High Court issued a notice to the Delhi government concerning the failure to implement the scheme, following a PIL lodged by seven BJP MPs from Delhi.

In response, Chief Minister Atishi confirmed the Delhi government's dedication to providing comprehensive healthcare services but highlighted discrepancies between the services under Ayushman Bharat and those already provided by the Delhi government.

"The Delhi government has consistently prioritized delivering strong health services. We are prepared to adopt the core principles of Ayushman Bharat. Nevertheless, there are significant differences between the services provided by Delhi government hospitals and those outlined in the Ayushman scheme. In Delhi government hospitals, all services are complimentary. Conversely, Ayushman Bharat imposes limitations, such as excluding beneficiaries who own a refrigerator, a vehicle, or a concrete house. It also caps financial aid at Rs 5 lakh per family. If two family members fall ill simultaneously, one may be ineligible for benefits," she explained.

Atishi further emphasized that the Delhi government is unwilling to compromise on free healthcare and has instructed the health department to seek ways to implement the Ayushman Bharat Yojana without disadvantaging citizens.