NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Monday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the Kumbh Mela, warning that if voters in Delhi are swayed by such symbolic gestures, it could pose a serious threat to democracy.
He asserted that Arvind Kejriwal’s governance, rather than religious optics, should determine the outcome of the Delhi Assembly elections.
“Kejriwal has delivered good work, and that is what will secure AAP’s victory,” Raut stated.
On Delhi assembly polls, Raut said, “On the same day, Modi ji is visiting Kumbh to take a holy dip. He thinks that the people of Delhi will vote for him on this basis. If people vote on this basis democracy is in danger in the country. Kejriwal ji should get votes based on the work he has done.”
He further took a dig at the Union Budget, Raut argued that the government’s policies fail to address inflation, unemployment, and middle-class concerns. “To benefit from Rs 12 lakh exemptions, one must first earn that amount. Where are the real solutions for common people?” he asked.
He also took a swipe at finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, stating that she should be firm in her role rather than merely relaying messages on behalf of the Prime Minister.
“The Finance Minister’s job is to boost the country’s revenue, not to act as a spokesperson for decisions the PM doesn’t want to announce himself,” he remarked.
Raut further questioned the government’s silence on contract workers, asking how many among the 3.5 crore were actually paying taxes. Dismissing Modi’s excitement over the budget, he said, “It takes at least 72 hours to fully grasp a budget. What exactly is he celebrating?”