New Delhi: As the assembly elections draw closer in Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has rolled out a series of welfare measures aimed at auto drivers, one of the city’s largest voter groups. The announcement came after a symbolic gesture where Kejriwal, along with his wife Sunita, dined at the home of an auto driver in New Kondli.
Five Key Promises for Auto Drivers
Following the lunch, Kejriwal unveiled five major benefits to support the auto driver community:
- Financial Assistance for Daughters’ Marriages: The Delhi government will provide ₹1 lakh for the marriage of each auto driver’s daughter.
- Festival Allowances for Uniforms: Auto drivers will receive ₹2,500 each on Holi and Diwali to cover uniform expenses, twice a year.
- Insurance Coverage: Life insurance worth ₹10 lakh and accidental insurance of ₹5 lakh will be offered to every auto driver.
- Free Coaching for Children: The government will bear the cost of coaching classes for the children of auto drivers, ensuring better educational opportunities.
- Revival of the ‘Poochho App’: To improve connectivity between passengers and auto drivers, the government plans to relaunch the ‘Poochho App.’
“Debt of Salt Must Be Paid,” Says Kejriwal
After spending about an hour with auto driver Navjeet and his family, Kejriwal emphasized his long-standing connection with the auto driver community, recalling the days of the anti-corruption movement.
“Today, I have eaten the salt of auto drivers. It is a debt I must repay,” Kejriwal remarked during his public address, underlining his gratitude and commitment to their welfare.
A Symbolic Gesture in the Heart of the Campaign
Kejriwal’s visit was met with enthusiasm by the local community. AAP MLA from Kondli, Kuldeep Kumar, expressed pride that Kejriwal chose his constituency for this significant announcement.
“This is not just a political move but a reflection of Kejriwal’s enduring relationship with auto drivers. He has always stood by them, and every election brings new benefits for their welfare,” said Kumar.
Auto Drivers: A Strategic Electoral Base
Auto drivers have been a pivotal support base for Kejriwal and the AAP since his early political campaigns. The latest measures aim to cement this relationship as the party gears up for the assembly elections.
Kejriwal’s outreach is expected to resonate strongly with this community, reaffirming his grassroots approach to politics. As Delhi heads into election season, the auto driver welfare package could play a decisive role in shaping the electoral outcome.
