AAP defends MCD management against BJP's fund mismanagement claims

In New Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) defended its management of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) against accusations of fund mismanagement by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This response came after BJP councillors claimed they met with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to discuss alleged budget cuts affecting the MCD. AAP emphasized its achievements during its two-year tenure in the MCD. The party pointed out that it had restored a struggling revenue system. It also highlighted the timely payment of salaries and the regularization of over 12,000 employees. Furthermore, AAP stated that the Delhi government allocated funds fairly to all MCD councillors, including BJP members, who reportedly received extra funding. In its defense, AAP accused the previous BJP-led MCD administration of emptying the treasury before AAP took office in 2022. The party mentioned that there was a large financial liability left behind, which amounts to crores. AAP argued that any ongoing issues were the result of 15 years of poor management by the BJP. During their recent meeting with the chief minister, BJP councillors claimed that the MCD had been treated unfairly under AAP's previous administration. They pointed to cuts that affected various development projects, including slum improvements and park maintenance, suggesting these changes led to a funding shortfall.