Arvind Kejriwal Critiques Narendra Modi for Politicising Public Health Concerns in Delhi

Arvind Kejriwal, the AAP leader, criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for politicising public health in Delhi. Kejriwal's comments followed Modi's criticism of Delhi and West Bengal for not implementing the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. Modi expressed disappointment over the lack of free healthcare for the elderly in these states, describing it as a missed chance to assist senior citizens.

During an event at New Delhi's All India Institute of Ayurveda, Modi apologised to seniors over 70 in Delhi and West Bengal. He acknowledged their struggles but blamed state decisions for his inability to help. Kejriwal responded by stating that discussing public health issues inaccurately and using them for political gain is inappropriate.

Delhi's Healthcare Model vs Ayushman Bharat

Kejriwal suggested that PM Modi should examine Delhi's healthcare model and consider adopting it nationwide instead of the Ayushman Bharat scheme. He claimed that under Delhi's plan, every resident receives free medical care, with costs covered by the government, whether it's a small expense or a significant one.

The former chief minister also mentioned he has not encountered anyone who benefited from Ayushman Bharat. "Pradhan Mantri ji, Speaking wrongly over public health issue and indulging in politics on it is not right," Kejriwal posted in Hindi. He offered to provide a list of numerous beneficiaries of Delhi's health initiative.

Criticism from Other AAP Leaders

Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj labelled Ayushman Bharat as ineffective. He noted that patients from states like UP, Haryana, and Rajasthan, where the scheme is active, come to Delhi for surgeries. Bharadwaj highlighted that Delhi hospitals offer free treatment unlike those in BJP-ruled states.

AAP leader Sanjay Singh criticised the central scheme as impractical. He pointed out that owning basic items like a refrigerator or motorcycle disqualifies individuals from Ayushman Bharat benefits. Singh alleged it was a major scam in BJP-led states and called for data analysis from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to reveal any fraud.

Kejriwal also questioned the benefits of Ayushman Bharat, citing CAG findings of irregularities. He emphasised that Delhi's health schemes are more effective than the national scheme. The debate highlights differing views on healthcare approaches between state and central governments.