Republican Party of India (RPI) National Secretary-General Dr. Rajeev Menon has announced that the party will lead a series of intense protests, demanding the liberation of Delhi from alcohol and tobacco addiction. He warned that if the current government does not declare Delhi a drug-free state before the upcoming legislative assembly elections, an indefinite hunger strike will be organized in front of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence. Dr. Rajeev Menon made this statement on Gandhi Jayanti, invoking the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and emphasizing the harmful effects of addiction. He remarked that individuals addicted to alcohol and drugs are moving towards death, and addiction dehumanizes them.
Kejriwal had taken office with promises to protect the slum dwellers of Delhi, free them from alcohol addiction, and transform Delhi into a tobacco-free state. The Aam Aadmi Party’s manifesto also included the promise to make Delhi drug-free, alongside highlights such as free education, affordable drinking water, and the creation of more job opportunities. However, Dr. Rajeev Menon claims that Kejriwal has failed in every area, with underage drinking now widespread on the streets. Basic amenities like electricity, water, transportation, education, health, and sanitation in the slums have deteriorated. The use of tobacco and drugs has also increased significantly. According to Dr. Rajeev Menon, Kejriwal has been unable to manage Delhi effectively.
None of the promises made by the Aam Aadmi Party have been fulfilled. There has been no significant progress in the health or education sectors, and people continue to face unsafe living conditions. Dr. Rajeev Menon warned that if the government does not implement a lasting solution before the upcoming elections, he will lead a hunger strike in front of Kejriwal’s residence.
