Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Somnath Bharti has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using law enforcement and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to prevent Purvanchalis in Delhi from celebrating Chhath Puja. The AAP MLA, representing Malviya Nagar, raised these allegations at a recent press conference, criticizing BJP’s role in obstructing the festivities at a traditional location in Hauz Khas village.
Claims of “Anti-Purvanchali” Sentiment
Bharti asserted that BJP’s actions reflect an “anti-Purvanchali” stance, as police and DDA officials were allegedly deployed to stop the celebration in a park where the community has gathered for years. “The BJP’s real face has been exposed by preventing people in Hauz Khas from celebrating Chhath where it has been traditionally held,” Bharti stated.
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Legal Action Against Devotees Sparks Controversy
The AAP leader further claimed that an FIR was filed against devotees under the pretext that the park lies within a protected forest area. According to Bharti, this action is part of a broader attempt by BJP to hinder Chhath celebrations, fueling a dispute that has seen both AAP and BJP clash over festival preparations in the past.
Chhath Puja’s Rising Significance in Delhi
Chhath Puja, a major festival for the Purvanchali community (residents from eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand), has gained considerable importance in Delhi. Purvanchalis make up around 30-40% of Delhi’s electorate, making their support a significant factor as Assembly elections approach early next year.
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