Why Kejriwal will resign, healthcare for all seniors, and name change politics
Sep 17, 2024
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Mallica Joshi, a journalist, dives into the implications of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's resignation amid corruption allegations, revealing the strategic moves behind the decision. Anonna Dutt, a commentator on senior healthcare, discusses the expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which now covers all citizens over 70, highlighting its transformative impact on accessibility. They also explore the political motivations behind renaming Port Blair to Sri Vijaya Puram, shedding light on historical and contemporary significance.
Kejriwal's resignation aims to directly challenge the BJP's narrative of political pressure, seeking to redefine political accountability in India.
The expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme to seniors marks a significant step towards inclusive healthcare, addressing the needs of India's aging population.
Deep dives
Kejriwal's Bail and Resignation
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was granted bail by the Supreme Court after months of being detained in relation to the Delhi excise policy case. Upon his release, he unexpectedly announced his resignation, stating he wanted to seek the people's mandate to determine their trust in him amid corruption allegations. Kejriwal emphasized that his decision was meant to challenge the narrative that political figures should resign under pressure from rival parties, specifically accusing the BJP of manipulating situations to force resignations. He argued he could effectively govern from jail, signaling a broader message to other leaders facing similar circumstances.
Expansion of Ayushman Bharat
The Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme was recently expanded to cover all individuals aged 70 and above, regardless of their income status. This inclusion aims to provide comprehensive health coverage for pre-existing conditions without a waiting period, which is a significant shift from typical private insurance practices. With an annual coverage of ₹5 lakh, eligible individuals will have access to a wide range of medical services across both government and designated private hospitals. This initiative is vital, considering the increasing elderly population in India and their heightened healthcare needs.
Political Implications of Name Changes
The central government's renaming of Port Blair to Sri Vijayapuram reflects a broader trend of altering names deemed colonial or Muslim in origin, aligning with the BJP’s narrative of decolonization. This practice, which has seen mixed responses across different governments, seeks to reclaim historical narratives and emphasize India's freedom struggle. The BJP's focus on figures like V.D. Savarkar and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose aims to reshape the discourse around the legacy of the independence movement and its historical figures, often contrasting their contributions against the Congress party's legacy. Such strategic name changes not only influence regional sentiments but also serve to challenge the political dominance of the Congress party in discussions of historical significance.
First, Indian Express’ Mallica Joshi discusses why Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has chosen to resign at this moment and how this decision impacts the BJP’s narrative against him.
Next, Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt explains the significance of the Union Cabinet’s decision to expand the government’s flagship health insurance scheme to include everyone over the age of 70, regardless of income level (11:36).
Finally, in light of the government renaming Port Blair to Sri Vijaya Puram, Indian Express’ Vikas Pathak talks about the broader political implications of renaming states and cities (21:08).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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