Arvind Kejriwal’s big promises for auto drivers ahead of polls

New Delhi: Ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, AAP national convenor and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal made a major announcement for the city’s auto drivers, pledging a series of welfare measures to improve their financial security and support their families. The promises, unveiled during a heartfelt visit to the home of an auto driver, are aimed at ensuring a better quality of life for those who play a crucial role in Delhi’s daily transport system.

In a significant move, Kejriwal guaranteed that under an AAP government, every auto driver would be provided with a life insurance policy worth Rs 10 lakh and an accident insurance policy of Rs 5 lakh. This initiative aims to provide much-needed financial security to the drivers and their families.

Speaking to the media, Kejriwal emphasised his long-standing connection with the auto drivers of Delhi, recalling their support during his party’s first electoral victory. “Auto drivers were instrumental in our first victory, and I trust they’ll rally for us again,” he said. Kejriwal also made additional promises, including Rs 1 lakh for the marriage of auto drivers’ daughters, Rs 2,500 twice a year for uniforms, and full coverage for children’s competitive exam coaching.

Kejriwal’s deep bond with Delhi’s auto drivers was evident during his visit to the home of Navneet Singh, an auto driver from New Kondli. Along with his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, he shared a meal with Navneet’s family, expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality. “Today, I can proudly say that I have eaten the salt of auto drivers, and repaying this debt is my duty,” Kejriwal remarked.

Reflecting on his earlier efforts to support auto drivers, Kejriwal recalled the challenges they faced under the Congress government in 2013. “Back then, auto drivers were often criticised and looked down upon. I was the first politician to stand in support of them,” he recalled. He highlighted that his government had made substantial strides for the community, including waiving fees and addressing harassment by officials.

In his final pledge, Kejriwal promised the revival of the ‘PoochO’ app, which auto drivers had requested. He further stated that his government would cover the full cost of coaching for the children of auto drivers aspiring to crack competitive exams. “We want the children of auto drivers to rise and excel in life,” he said.

Acknowledging the critical role of auto drivers in AAP’s electoral success, Kejriwal urged them to mobilise their passengers.

“If each driver convinces 10-15 passengers to vote for the Aam Aadmi Party, it can make a significant impact,” he added.