4 January, 2025; Congress leader Alka Lamba, contesting her fifth election, has strongly criticized Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal over his controversial remarks during the ongoing campaign for the Delhi Assembly elections. Lamba, who is contesting from the Kalkaji constituency, expressed her dismay at the former Delhi Chief Minister’s comments, referring to them as an insult to women in leadership and constitutional positions.
In a recent statement, Lamba said, “In my 30 years of political life, I never thought someone would call a person sitting on a constitutional post as ‘temporary.’ Not a common man, but the former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, called her [Atishi] a ‘temporary CM.’ This is an insult to a woman occupying a constitutional position, and Atishi should respond to this.”
The remarks by Kejriwal, indicating his intention to reclaim the Chief Minister’s position, have sparked controversy, particularly as they downplay the legitimacy of Atishi’s current role. Atishi, seen as a rising leader within the AAP, has been projected as a significant contender in the elections. Lamba emphasized the need for a response from Atishi, calling on her to clarify her stance on Kejriwal’s assertion.
Lamba further stated, “Arvind Kejriwal decided on his own that he would be the next Chief Minister. This undermines democratic processes and shows a lack of respect for women leaders.”
The comments come amid a heated electoral battle in Delhi, where issues of governance, leadership, and representation have taken center stage. Lamba’s criticism aligns with the Congress party’s broader campaign, which has sought to challenge the AAP’s governance record and highlight what it describes as Kejriwal’s authoritarian tendencies.
The Kalkaji constituency, from which Lamba is contesting, is considered a high-profile seat, with candidates from major political parties vying for voter support. Lamba, a seasoned politician with a career spanning three decades, has positioned herself as a strong advocate for women’s representation and accountability in politics.
As the election approaches, all eyes remain on the responses from both Atishi and the AAP, as well as on how Lamba’s pointed critique will influence the campaign dynamics in Delhi.
