NEW DELHI,– Delhi Congress President Devender Yadav has raised strong concerns over the Rekha Gupta-led BJP government’s increasing reliance on loans in the name of development, warning that the capital is being dragged into a dangerous debt trap rather than being led toward genuine progress.
Yadav questioned the transparency of the Delhi government’s proposals under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Expenditure (S.A.S.S.I.) scheme, especially after a fresh ₹600 crore loan request was made to the Centre—allegedly for tourism-related projects—while pressing civic needs like housing for the urban poor, drinking water access, and food security remain neglected.
“The people of Delhi were promised development, but what they’re getting is debt and higher taxes,” said Yadav. “Out of the ₹1 lakh crore budget, around ₹15,000 crore is from loans, and nearly ₹10,000 crore will come from additional taxes. This so-called development is turning into a burden.”
He warned that the financial burden will eventually fall on the shoulders of Delhi’s citizens, who will bear the brunt through rising taxes and service charges. According to Yadav, the meeting between Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was more about securing funds than addressing public needs.
Yadav also criticized the BJP MPs for failing to secure any special financial aid for Delhi in the past. He demanded that the state government disclose the complete list of proposals submitted under the S.A.S.S.I. scheme in the last five years and clarify how many are actually intended to improve the lives of Delhi’s residents.
Highlighting Delhi’s existing financial stress, Yadav stated:
- Delhi government is already under a ₹36,000 crore debt
- Delhi Jal Board has debts exceeding ₹75,000 crore
- DTC is facing a debt of ₹65,000 crore
He said the situation has worsened since the BJP took charge in Delhi, and instead of relief, the citizens are being pushed into deeper financial pressure.
Yadav also criticized the Centre’s economic model, saying that Prime Minister Modi’s policies have already put India under a national debt of over ₹200 lakh crore, and the same pattern is now being replicated in Delhi.
In conclusion, Yadav demanded that Delhi receive financial aid instead of loans, especially when the city’s essential services and infrastructure still require urgent attention. He emphasized that the capital’s progress cannot be built on borrowed money and rising public debt.
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