Bansuri Swaraj, scion of the formidable Sushma Swaraj, stalwart of the BJP, emerges as a force to reckon with in the political battleground of New Delhi. This coveted parliamentary seat, steeped in legacy, once graced by giants such as Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Lal Krishna Advani, now witnesses Bansuri Swaraj’s resolute stride towards victory.
The reign of Meenakshi Lekhi, the incumbent MP from 2014 to 2024, paves the way for Bansuri Swaraj to realign with relentless pursuit of power. Her legal prowess, honed over 15 years, stands as a testament to her mettle, backed by a stellar academic pedigree from renowned institutions like the University of Warwick and the University of Oxford.
New Delhi’s political landscape, dominated by the AAP, now faces a seismic shift with the formidable candidacy of Bansuri Swaraj. Despite the AAP’s stranglehold on the region and the tempests of controversy surrounding them, Bansuri Swaraj stands undeterred, fortified by the unwavering support of Prime Minister Modi and the BJP‘s visionary governance.
In the crucible of political turmoil, Bansuri Swaraj emerges as a beacon of strength, harnessing every ripple of adversity to fuel her inexorable march towards victory. As she locks horns with the AAP’s Somnath Bharti, the campaign of Bansuri Swaraj reverberates with the echoes of change, resonating across the nooks and crannies of New Delhi’s bustling streets.
With each ‘nukkad sabha,’ Bansuri Swaraj rallies the masses, igniting a fervor that transcends the boundaries of mere politics. Her morning padyatras, a testament to her unwavering dedication, unfold a narrative of resilience and determination in the face of mounting challenges.
A vibrant tapestry of demographics, spanning all age groups, faiths, and political persuasions, converges in these assemblies. Significantly, profound acquaintance of bansuri Swaraj with the locales stems from her upbringing in New Delhi during her mother’s tenure as chief minister and subsequently as a union minister, cementing her intimate connection to the area.
Recently, senior journalist Ravindra Ojha, representing The Interview World, joined the campaign of Bansuri Swaraj in New Delhi’s Green Park, providing an insightful glimpse into her electoral endeavors.
Q: What are the key developments and public sentiments in Delhi during the current election season?
A: The people of Delhi have overwhelmingly supported and shown affection for the remarkable journey of the campaign. I express profound gratitude for the unwavering love and blessings bestowed upon me throughout the 76 days of relentless efforts. This outpouring of affection underscores the deep-rooted faith and commitment the people of Delhi have in the leadership of Narendra Modi ji.
The government implements highly beneficial schemes, reaching every stratum of society, which are central to this support. Modi ji’s vision of a developed India, resonating deeply with the people of Delhi, translates into tangible blessings for our party.
Q: Your speeches at various nukkad sabhas have been impressive and show a deep sense of preparedness. It seems like you might have been influenced by your parents as well. When did you first consider a career in politics?
A: Thank you for the compliment, but I must be forthright. My journey unfolded rather unexpectedly. Over the course of a decade, I dedicated myself to serving the party, primarily in legal capacities. Then, out of the blue, I received a phone call inviting me to assume the role of co-convener within the legal cell of Delhi BJP.
After some time, the Delhi BJP entrusted me with the position of Secretary. Then, on March 2nd, like many others, television informed me that I had been given a new responsibility: candidacy for the New Delhi Lok Sabha seat.
Q: Could you describe your constituency, highlighting its key locations and the challenges you face, especially given that many legislators there belong to the Aam Aadmi Party?
A: The constituency of New Delhi is a vibrant tapestry, encompassing diverse linguistic, religious, and economic backgrounds. If Delhi is the heart of Bharat, then New Delhi’s parliamentary constituency is the pulsating heartbeat within. However, amidst its beauty, there lie pressing issues that demand attention.
Firstly, for nearly a decade, the political landscape has been dominated by the Aam Aadmi Party, yet the palpable impact on the ground remains minimal. Consequently, there is a growing sense of disillusionment among the populace. If entrusted with the responsibility of representing them in Parliament, I pledge to earnestly address their grievances.
Secondly, the obstructionist politics of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has hindered the implementation of crucial schemes, such as Ayushman Bharat, in Delhi. Despite its proven benefits, Delhiites are unjustly deprived of its provisions. Under Modi 3.0, there is a commendable initiative to expand Ayushman Bharat to encompass marginalized groups and senior citizens. These benefits must reach the citizens of Delhi without delay.
In pursuit of this goal, I am committed to exhausting all avenues, including legal recourse if necessary, to ensure that the residents of Delhi are not deprived of their entitlements. My mandate, if secured, will be dedicated to bridging the gap between promise and implementation, thereby fostering equitable access to vital services like Ayushman Bharat for all Delhiites.
Q: New Delhi is a prestigious seat. Why do you focus on local issues like drain cleaning, typically a state responsibility, while also highlighting the Modi government’s achievements?
A: Due to my sincere dedication to serving the populace, I express a profound commitment to my fellow citizens. As a native of Delhi, with deep roots in this city, I harbor an unwavering allegiance to its welfare. Throughout my campaign endeavors, I traverse every street and alleyway, each evoking a personal recollection.
Moreover, this constituency holds familial significance, further amplifying my emotional connection to Delhi. I affirm, unequivocally, that this city belongs to me. I pledge my utmost efforts to secure for Delhiites the dignity and improved standard of living they deserve. Should the representatives of the Aam Aadmi Party falter in their duties, I, as a conscientious voter of Delhi, stand prepared to address these issues if entrusted with the privilege of parliamentary representation.
Q: What are your thoughts or analysis on the implications and feasibility of Prime Minister Modi’s slogan ‘400 paar’?
A: The pledge of “400 paar” by our Prime Minister transcends mere political rhetoric; it stands as a solemn mandate from Modi ji for every BJP member to actualize on the ground. With confidence, I anticipate surpassing the 400 mark in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Q: What measures can be implemented to ensure the safety of all citizens in Delhi, given that even high-profile figures like Rajya Sabha MP and former DCW chief Swati Maliwal have faced alleged assaults?
A: Two distinct concerns emerge from your query. Firstly, the conspicuous silence of the esteemed Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, on the matter of the alleged assault of Swati Maliwal by his Officer on Special Duty (OSD) within the confines of his own residence is deeply disconcerting.
In failing to address this incident, the Chief Minister raises questions about his ability to safeguard the well-being of not only a member of the Rajya Sabha but also a female activist affiliated with his party. This glaring oversight prompts legitimate concerns regarding the safety of women across Delhi. What is particularly troubling is the lack of decisive action on the part of CM Kejriwal, compounded by reports of his association with the accused, which hints at a stark absence of commitment to justice and accountability.
Transitioning to the broader issue of women’s safety, it is prudent to revisit this discussion closer to December. This timing aligns with the imminent enforcement of new legislation slated for July 2024. The current legal framework, rooted in colonial-era laws such as the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Evidence Act, fails to resonate with the principles of justice pertinent to contemporary Indian society.
Historically, colonial authorities utilized these laws as instruments of control to suppress dissent and maintain subjugation. However, the impending introduction of laws tailored to the Indian ethos signifies a monumental shift. Crafted with a distinct focus on Indian values and societal needs, these laws hold significant promise for enhancing the safety and security of Indian citizens.
The forthcoming legislative reforms offer a robust framework, characterized by clarity and stringency, poised to markedly improve the safety landscape for Indians nationwide.
Q: Given your mother’s impactful campaigning in Karnataka, do you draw on any of her wisdom while campaigning, considering similarities in your styles?
A: One of the most profound teachings bestowed upon me by my mother was the essence of fearlessness. She instilled in me the value of giving my utmost in every endeavor, while entrusting the rest to a higher power. Central to her wisdom was the recognition that our actions, our karma, remain within our sphere of influence, serving as the compass of our lives.
Q: How do you respond to opposition leaders citing your position as an example of the BJP’s engagement in dynastic politics?
A: When addressing dynasty politics, it’s imperative to ensure equal opportunities for all individuals, including myself. Exclusion from political participation solely based on my mother’s public service sets a dangerous precedent. The essence of democracy lies in providing a level playing field, irrespective of familial ties to power. If I were to assume immediate leadership roles within the party upon entry, that would indeed signify dynasty politics. However, advocating for equal opportunity isn’t about privilege; it’s about fairness and meritocracy. Whether it’s the daughter of Sushma Swaraj or any other citizen, the principle of equal opportunity should remain sacrosanct.
