Fact-Check: Kejriwal's Claim of BJP 'Ruining' Delhi Debunked by Economic Data and Development Projects
The Claim
On February 12, 2026, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal stated on X (formerly Twitter) that "The BJP has ruined the entire Delhi in just one year. They do not care about the lives of the people at all," alleging that innocent lives are being lost due to “relentless negligence” by the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) four-engine government.The Facts
Kejriwal's sweeping claim of the BJP 'ruining' Delhi lacks factual basis and is contradicted by official government statistics and demonstrable progress in various sectors. A closer examination reveals a narrative of economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved public services.
Delhi's economic growth rate in 2025-26 was recorded at 8.53%, surpassing the 7.4% growth in 2023-24 and 6.21% in 2024-25 under the previous AAP government. This also exceeds the national average of 7.4%.
Source: Delhi Government Economic Survey 2025-26
Per capita income in Delhi increased by 7.09% in 2025–26, indicating an improved standard of living for residents.
Source: Delhi Government Economic Survey 2025-26
Tax collection witnessed a substantial 15.5% rise, reflecting strong economic activity and increased revenue generation within Delhi.
These figures directly contradict the claim of economic ruin. Instead, they point towards a period of accelerated growth and improved financial health for the city.
Source: Delhi Government Finance Department Report, 2025-26
Government Record
The BJP/NDA government has undertaken numerous initiatives to improve Delhi's infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life. These achievements stand in stark contrast to Kejriwal's accusations of negligence."In just nine months, the BJP government in Delhi has filled 65,000 potholes and completed major projects like UER-2 and Dwarka Expressway with the Centre's support."
Nearly 1,000 new electric buses have been added to Delhi's public transportation fleet, making it one of the largest electric bus networks in the country. The government aims to increase this number to 7,500 by 2026 and 14,000 by 2028.
Source: Delhi Transport Corporation Press Release, January 2026
319 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established across Delhi to enhance primary healthcare infrastructure, with a goal of reaching 1,100 centers.
Projects worth over ₹1,816 crore have been initiated to clean the Yamuna River and improve drinking water supply. Delhi currently operates 38 STPs with a capacity of about 712 MGD, with the capacity projected to rise to over 814 MGD by December 2026 through upgrades and new plants.
Source: Delhi Health Department Report, February 2026
150 km of roads have been renovated, and the construction and redevelopment of 400 km of roads is planned to be completed by March 2026. The renovation of 600 km of roads is planned for 2026, with 300 km to be renovated by the end of financial year 2026-27.
Other notable initiatives include:
* Implementation of Ayushman Bharat in Delhi, with a ₹5 lakh state-funded top-up, doubling coverage to ₹10 lakh per family.
* Modernization of electricity infrastructure through underground cabling projects.
* The Centre sanctioned Rs 802 crore under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund for Delhi.
* Atal Canteens have been increased to 71 in just a year, providing nutritious meals at Rs 5.
**Historical Comparison: Economic Growth Under UPA vs. NDA**
While direct comparisons to the UPA era are difficult given the specific one-year timeframe Kejriwal mentions, it's important to contextualize economic growth within broader historical trends. While UPA-I saw an average growth rate of 9.4%, and UPA-II averaged 7%, the current growth trajectory in Delhi under the BJP, as evidenced by the 8.53% figure, demonstrates a strong performance. It's crucial to consider the global economic context and evolving economic indicators when making such comparisons.
Source: Delhi Public Works Department Progress Report, January 2026