(Ajay) Maken is claiming credit for something he opposed: Vijay Goel

For Vijay Goel, a former union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, the last four months has seen life come a full circle. From having apparent “differences” with his party’s Delhi Chief Ministerial candidate VK Malhotra after he was snubbed during the states Assembly election, the Sri Ram College of Commerce pass-out is now bracing for a head on collision with Congress heavyweight Ajay Maken from the prestigious New Delhi constituency. Dismissing Maken’s claim of development as rhetoric, the 3-time Member of Parliament Goel shares his vision for the city, amongst other things with Pratik Dogra of zeenews.com. On his opponent Ajay Maken’s claim of successfully leading the CNG revolution in Delhi: How can they claim credit for something they opposed? When Maken was the transport minister of Delhi, everyone knows that the Delhi government opposed it. When the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court issued directives, only then was the use of CNG in public transport made mandatory. And today, Maken claims to have introduced CNG in the capital. On his agenda if he wins: Foremost would be solving the water and electricity problems in the city. It`s mandatory before any city claims to be a world class city. Another thing I seek to curb is the BRT menace let lose by Congress in the city. We need to control it. Make it only where it’s absolutely necessary. We would fast track the process of development of villages. There are many in Delhi. A permanent relief from the ceiling drive is also a high priority. Under Congress rule, Jungle Raj has flourished in the city. We will take steps to improve the law and order in the city. Terrorism and terrorist acts have also increased due to present government’s weak willed approach towards it. Hard measures need to be taken, and if the NDA forms the government, we won’t flinch from implementing tough anti-terror laws. National security is paramount. On Sixth Pay commission: The pay commission was faulty and needs revision. It would be improved such that it actually benefits government employees. Also on the agenda is to provide adequate attention to the maintenance of Government flats in the city. We would also implement measures to improve the degree of professionalism in the workings of CPWD. They need to be made more people friendly. Message to youth: We appeal to youth to come forward and vote for party. BJP has always been a youth oriented party. Unlike the Congress that is run by one dynasty, BJP has always been open to best people from the society. Youth is our country’s treasure. Our Government would try and create new opportunities for their employment. Under Congress rule, even students coming out of IIMs and IITs have no jobs to look forward to, with placements going down to only 50%. I don’t know what success they are talking about. And not just youth, BJP believes in development that’s inclusive. I think the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Citizens Act should also be immediately implemented. The act was formulated a year ago, but the Delhi government has not implemented it so far. The Act would safeguard senior citizens, who were neglected by their children. On his faux pas ‘Delhi sey BJP ka safaya karna chahta hoon (I want to wipe out BJP from Delhi).’ I guess I have working tirelessly for last few days. It was a stupid slip…but my people know what I mean and what I stand for. They won’t let me down.