Did Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Slam AAP Leaders for Rumors on Slum Demolitions?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Delhi government committed to slum rehabilitation.
- Rs 700 crore allocated for slum development.
- CM Gupta criticized AAP for spreading misinformation.
- Historical neglect of slum issues by previous administrations.
- Government aims for inclusive urban growth.
New Delhi, July 27 (NationPress) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday accused AAP leaders of disseminating false information regarding slum demolitions, reaffirming the government's dedication to rehabilitate eligible slum residents if their homes are demolished for development projects.
The Chief Minister made this declaration at the slum camp (Faatak wali jhuggi) near the railway crossing in Shalimar Bagh on Sunday, where the Railways have issued a notice for demolition as part of a project aimed at expanding the Azadpur railway station.
CM Gupta assured slum residents that her government has earmarked Rs 700 crore in the Budget for slum settlement development.
She emphasized that whenever slums must be demolished, arrangements are in place to provide housing for eligible residents.
The Chief Minister also urged slum dwellers not to be deceived by the "broom-wielding" (AAP) leaders, who during their administration treated slum residents merely as vote banks and promoted alcohol distribution in these areas.
As the current government focuses on development schemes for slum communities, these leaders are attempting to stir unrest and mislead residents, she stated.
CM Gupta highlighted that a survey of the Faatak wali jhuggi area was conducted in 2020, but the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government neither made any decisions nor engaged with the Railways. "Now we have started working on a plan for you, ensuring you do not suffer any hardships," she said.
She reiterated that if slums need to be demolished for development projects or valid reasons, the government will guarantee proper rehabilitation for eligible residents so they can participate in Delhi's growth narrative.
CM Gupta assured she would communicate with the Ministry of Railways to arrange housing for residents in this area. "You will receive complete justice. The Delhi government is fully committed to this," she stated, assuring there is no need for alarm.
The Chief Minister also criticized the Congress and AAP administrations, noting that over the past 40 years, there has been no development in Delhi's slums.
“These parties have viewed slum dwellers solely as vote banks, consistently attempting to exploit them while harming the city's geographical integrity,” she said.
CM Gupta stated that AAP leaders are making unfounded claims that the Delhi government is intent on removing slum dwellers.