Delhi Elections 2025: Congress Escalates Attacks on AAP Over Liquor Policy Scam

Ajay Maken Defends Rahul Gandhi’s Criticism, Cites CAG Report as Proof of Corruption

New Delhi, February 3: With just days left for the Delhi Assembly elections, Congress leader Ajay Maken has intensified his party’s attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia of corruption in the controversial liquor policy case. Maken defended Rahul Gandhi’s sharp criticism of Kejriwal, asserting that it is not a personal attack but a necessary exposé of governance failures.

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Maken, who is an MP and AICC treasurer, emphasized that the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report provides fresh evidence of AAP’s alleged corruption. “The CAG report clearly explains how this corruption took place, from the liquor scam to the extravagant expenses on ‘Sheeshmahal’ [Kejriwal’s official residence]. AAP was founded on the promise of eradicating corruption, yet its leaders are now accused of misusing public funds,” he stated.

Congress vs AAP: Rift in the INDIA Bloc

The ongoing war of words between Congress and AAP has surprised many, given that both parties are part of the opposition INDIA bloc and had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections together in Delhi and Haryana. However, tensions have escalated in recent weeks, with Congress aggressively attacking Kejriwal’s administration.

Maken justified the timing of Rahul Gandhi’s attacks, explaining that the CAG report is a new development. “AAP frequently cited the CAG’s findings to attack the Congress government in 2012-13. Now, when the same institution exposes their wrongdoings, we have every right to hold them accountable,” he added.

Rahul Gandhi’s Direct Jabs at Kejriwal

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has ramped up his attacks on Kejriwal in recent rallies, accusing him of failing to fulfill promises. “Kejriwal pledged to bring clean politics, yet his government is involved in the biggest liquor scam in Delhi’s history,” Gandhi alleged. He also challenged Kejriwal over the pollution in the Yamuna River, reminding voters of the Chief Minister’s unfulfilled promise to take a dip in the river after cleaning it. “The water is still dirty. I challenge him to drink it. We will meet in the hospital afterward,” he quipped.

Additionally, Gandhi criticized AAP’s leadership structure, claiming that Dalits, OBCs, and Muslims are absent from its core team. “Kejriwal once roamed around in a small car, climbed electric poles, and spoke about clean politics. Today, he runs a corporate-style government, ignoring the marginalized communities,” he asserted.

Congress vs AAP: The Electoral Battle

Congress has launched an aggressive campaign in Delhi, with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joining the fray. The party has promised key welfare schemes and fielded strong candidates against AAP’s top leaders, including Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi.

Maken also accused AAP of dismissing alliance talks with Congress, stating that Kejriwal and Gopal Rai unilaterally declared that AAP would contest all 70 seats alone. He claimed that AAP has eroded Congress’ traditional voter base and that the party is now working to regain lost ground.

Delhi Elections 2025: Key Dates

• Voting Date: February 5, 2025
• Results Declaration: February 8, 2025

As the political battle heats up, the rivalry between Congress and AAP is set to play a crucial role in shaping the electoral outcome in Delhi.