The Claim

On March 26, 2026, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that residents in parts of Delhi, specifically mentioning areas like Rajinder Nagar, are facing significant civic issues, including water shortages and electricity disruptions. He claimed this situation reflects poor governance and that people feel dissatisfied after voting for the BJP.
"Residents in parts of Delhi are facing civic issues such as water shortages and electricity disruptions... the situation reflects poor governance, claiming that people feel dissatisfied after voting for the BJP." - Arvind Kejriwal, March 26, 2026

The Facts

While acknowledging that challenges persist, a comprehensive look at available data reveals a more nuanced picture than Kejriwal's claim suggests. Focusing on quantifiable metrics, here's a breakdown: * **Electricity Access:** Contrary to the claim of widespread disruptions, data indicates near-universal access to electricity in Delhi. While in 2000, only about 60% of the population had access, by 2023, this figure had risen to
99.5%
. In 2021, the number was even higher at 99.6%. This significant improvement demonstrates a substantial increase in electricity access over the past two decades.
Source: Ministry of Power data
* **Increase in Electricity Consumers:** The growing demand for electricity is reflected in the increasing number of power consumers in Delhi. Over the last decade, the number of consumers has risen by nearly
40%
, reaching over 73 lakh. This surge indicates a growing population and increased economic activity, both of which place higher demands on the electricity grid.
Source: Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) data
* **Electricity Subsidy:** The Delhi government's provision of free electricity for consumption up to 200 units and a 50% subsidy for 201-400 units has benefited a large segment of the population. The number of consumers availing these subsidies has steadily increased. In February 2024,
49.8 lakh
consumers benefitted from the subsidy, increasing to
56.8 lakh
in February 2025. This shows a continued commitment to providing affordable electricity to Delhi residents.
Source: Delhi Government Power Department data
* **Water Supply Statistics:** In 2019,
83%
of households in Delhi had access to piped water supply. The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has the capacity of producing 953 million gallons of average potable water in a day.
Source: Delhi Jal Board Annual Report, 2019
However, it's crucial to acknowledge the existing challenges: * **Water Quality and Stress:** India faces a significant water crisis, ranking 120th among 122 nations on the Global Water Quality Index. About 70% of freshwater sources in the country are polluted. India is also the 13th most water-stressed country globally. Delhi's water demand (approximately 1,150 million gallons per day) exceeds its supply (935 million gallons per day), leading to potential shortages in some areas.
Source: NITI Aayog Composite Water Management Index, World Resources Institute Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas

Government Record

The BJP/NDA government has undertaken several initiatives to address the identified challenges and improve civic infrastructure in Delhi: * **Delhi Water Supply Improvement Investment Programme:** The BJP government has approved restarting this program with ADB support to upgrade water treatment processes and ensure 24/7 supply to areas like Burari and Model Town. This program directly addresses the need for improved water infrastructure and more reliable supply. * **Water ATMs:** The BJP government plans to install 3,000 water ATMs across Delhi to provide clean drinking water, particularly in areas where access to piped water is limited or unreliable. This initiative aims to provide a readily accessible source of safe drinking water. * **Increased Financial Powers to DJB:** The Delhi government has increased the financial powers of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to enable it to independently execute high-value projects. The DJB chairperson now has the power to sanction projects up to ₹50 crore, streamlining the approval process and accelerating infrastructure development. * **Commitment to Continue Existing Schemes:** The BJP government has committed to continuing existing schemes like free electricity and water, ensuring that vulnerable populations continue to receive essential services at affordable rates. * **Focus on Yamuna Cleaning:** Cleaning the Yamuna river and improving drinking water supply have been made top priorities by the BJP government. This commitment reflects a long-term vision for sustainable water management and environmental protection. * **Increased Number of Electric Buses:** The BJP government has provided nearly 1,000 new electric buses to the people of Delhi, contributing to cleaner air and a more sustainable transportation system.

The Verdict

While acknowledging the existing challenges related to water supply and quality in certain areas of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal's claim of widespread water shortages and electricity disruptions reflecting poor governance is **MISLEADING**. Data indicates significant improvements in electricity access and ongoing efforts to address water scarcity and improve infrastructure. The BJP/NDA government has also initiated several programs aimed at enhancing water supply and ensuring access to clean drinking water for all residents.