Kanhaiya Kumar and Manoj Tiwari Clash in North East Delhi Ahead of 2024 Election

Kanhaiya Kumar of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Manoj Tiwari of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are engaged in a heated battle for the North East Delhi Lok Sabha constituency as the 2024 Indian general election approaches. In an exclusive interview with India Today, Kumar expressed his strong interest in representing the important area, stating that he understands it well.

However, Tiwari, the sitting BJP MP, has taken swipes at his opponent, labeling Kumar a "supporter of terrorists like Afzal Guru." Tiwari believes the electoral contest will be very interesting, claiming that the Congress party and AAP have exposed themselves by fielding the former Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) president. "The people's primary concern is security, and the candidates from the Congress and AAP have the intention to tear the country apart," Tiwari alleged.

The BJP leader further asserted that Kumar's past controversies, such as his comments on Afzal Guru, will be considered by the voters. Tiwari accused the leadership of Congress and AAP of following Kumar's "divisive footsteps," leading to hesitation and disappointment among their workers and supporters.

Why this matters: The clash between Kumar and Tiwari in North East Delhi highlights the intense political rivalries and ideological differences ahead of the crucial 2024 Indian general election. The outcome of this high-stakes battle could have significant implications for the balance of power in the Lok Sabha and the future direction of Indian politics.

Both Kumar and Tiwari hail from Bihar, and the North East Delhi constituency has a sizeable population of minorities and people from Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, known as Purvanchalis. As the campaign heats up, the two candidates are expected to intensify their efforts to win over these key voter groups. Kumar's supporters have defended him, emphasizing that he is a patriotic individual, while Tiwari continues to question his opponent's past statements and allegiances.

Key Takeaways

• Kanhaiya Kumar (AAP) and Manoj Tiwari (BJP) are contesting the North East Delhi Lok Sabha seat.
• Tiwari accuses Kumar of supporting terrorists, while Kumar claims to understand the constituency well.
• The BJP claims the Congress and AAP have exposed themselves by fielding Kumar, a controversial figure.
• The outcome of this high-stakes battle could impact the balance of power in the Lok Sabha.
• Both candidates are targeting key voter groups like minorities and Purvanchalis in the constituency.