Tue Jan 28 17:39:44 UTC 2025: ## Congress-AAP Rift Widens as Rahul Gandhi Attacks Kejriwal Ahead of Delhi Elections

**New Delhi, January 29, 2025** – The chasm between the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), ostensibly allies in the INDIA opposition bloc, widened significantly on Tuesday as Congress MP Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Gandhi accused Kejriwal of being the architect of a major liquor scam and criticized his lavish lifestyle, echoing BJP’s criticisms of Kejriwal’s “sheeshmahal” (palace) residence.

Gandhi’s remarks, delivered at a rally in Delhi ahead of the February 5th assembly elections, directly targeted both Kejriwal and his former deputy, Manish Sisodia, both of whom faced arrest and jail time on corruption charges before being released on bail. Gandhi contrasted Kejriwal’s current lifestyle with his humble beginnings, highlighting the alleged discrepancy between Kejriwal’s promises of clean politics and the alleged liquor scam. He also drew a parallel between his own decision to vacate his government bungalow after suspension and Kejriwal’s continued residence in the allegedly lavish bungalow.

Kejriwal swiftly retaliated, accusing Gandhi of merely repeating BJP talking points and implying a secret agreement between the Congress and BJP. He questioned the lack of action against the Gandhi family in alleged corruption cases, further escalating the tension.

The public spat highlights the deep-seated distrust between the two parties, despite previous attempts at forming an alliance. While Gandhi reportedly pushed for continued collaboration, failed seat-sharing talks in Haryana and the Congress’s poor performance in the recent federal elections led to both parties contesting the Delhi elections separately. The ensuing attacks have been fierce, with the Congress also targeting Kejriwal over allegations of poisoned Yamuna river water.

The upcoming Delhi elections are crucial for both parties. The AAP seeks a third consecutive landslide victory, while the BJP, confident of its chances, aims to break the AAP’s winning streak. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed the BJP’s strong belief in their ability to defeat the AAP. The results, expected on February 8th, will be closely watched for their implications on the national political landscape.

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