Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi, accusing them of prioritizing liquor sales over the health and well-being of its citizens. Addressing a press conference, Mandaviya highlighted the importance of central government schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Vaya Vandana, which aim to provide affordable healthcare access to millions across India.
"The Government of India has repeatedly urged the Delhi government to prioritize the health of its people," Mandaviya stated. "However, instead of focusing on essential healthcare initiatives, they seem more interested in generating revenue through liquor sales."
Mandaviya's remarks come in response to the ongoing debate surrounding the implementation of Ayushman Bharat in Delhi. While the central government has urged the AAP administration to adopt the scheme, there have been disagreements regarding its implementation.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has stated that her government is committed to providing robust healthcare facilities and is willing to implement the core principles of Ayushman Bharat. However, she has raised concerns about potential contradictions between Delhi's existing healthcare system and the conditions set by the central scheme. She argues that Delhi's free healthcare model, which offers comprehensive medical care regardless of income or assets, might be compromised by the financial limitations and eligibility criteria imposed by Ayushman Bharat.
"Our government hospitals provide free healthcare to all residents," Atishi explained. "Ayushman Bharat, on the other hand, places restrictions based on factors like home ownership, vehicle possession, and refrigerator ownership. It also caps financial assistance at Rs5 lakh per family. This could potentially disadvantage vulnerable citizens who rely heavily on our public healthcare system."
Atishi further stated that her government is exploring alternative solutions to ensure the benefits of Ayushman Bharat reach Delhi's residents without compromising existing free healthcare services.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj has criticized the AAP government for neglecting the health needs of Delhi citizens and prioritizing political interests over public welfare. She lauded the Delhi High Court for issuing a notice to the Delhi government regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by all seven BJP MPs from Delhi. The PIL seeks directions for the implementation of Ayushman Bharat in Delhi, highlighting the scheme's potential to provide crucial healthcare coverage to millions.
"The AAP government is putting political agendas ahead of the well-being of its citizens," Swaraj asserted. "By not implementing Ayushman Bharat, they are depriving Delhi residents of a vital health safety net that could significantly improve their lives."
