In a fresh political clash, Delhi minister Atishi accused the central government of allowing the national capital to descend into a “Mumbai underworld” situation. Her comments have drawn a sharp response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), intensifying the ongoing war of words between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the BJP over law and order in Delhi.
Speaking at a press conference on October 21, 2024, Atishi expressed concerns about the rise in organized crime in Delhi, pointing fingers at the Centre’s control over the Delhi Police. “The way organized crime is increasing in the city is reminiscent of the Mumbai underworld of the 90s. The central government has completely failed to manage law and order in Delhi,” Atishi said, questioning the effectiveness of the Home Ministry in curbing criminal activities in the capital.
Atishi emphasized the role of the central government, which directly oversees the Delhi Police, in maintaining security and order in the city. “If the Centre cannot protect the citizens of Delhi, then it should hand over the responsibility to the Delhi government,” she added. Her remarks come amid rising concerns about gang-related violence and organized crime in the city, which have led to fears about public safety.
The BJP, in turn, criticized Atishi’s remarks, accusing AAP of using the issue of law and order as a political tool rather than working towards solutions. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra hit back, saying, “Atishi’s statements are nothing more than political theatrics. The central government has been taking significant steps to ensure the safety of Delhi’s citizens. It is unfortunate that AAP is trying to politicize the matter instead of cooperating to improve the situation.”
Patra further defended the Centre’s role in maintaining security in Delhi, stressing the recent measures undertaken by the central government and the Delhi Police to tackle organized crime. He highlighted recent operations that have targeted gangs and criminal networks in the city, emphasizing that these efforts have led to notable arrests and a clampdown on illegal activities.
The tussle over Delhi’s law and order is part of a broader political conflict between AAP and the BJP, with the Delhi government frequently criticizing the Centre’s role in handling police affairs. AAP leaders have argued that the Delhi Police should be under the control of the elected Delhi government, while the Centre maintains that the current arrangement ensures better coordination and control over security issues in the capital.
This exchange comes at a time when Delhi has witnessed a few high-profile incidents involving gang violence and organized crime, raising concerns among residents and prompting debates on governance and security. The political friction over these incidents reflects deeper divisions between the two parties regarding the management of the city.
Atishi’s comments have further inflamed the debate, with supporters of AAP backing her call for greater autonomy for the Delhi government in handling security issues. Meanwhile, BJP supporters argue that central oversight of the police is crucial given the national capital’s significance and its unique security challenges.
As the political war of words continues, the issue of law and order remains a key topic of contention between AAP and BJP, each attempting to position themselves as the more effective guardian of Delhi’s safety.