AAP's promises on RWA gets mixed reactions

While the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) rolled out its big idea of empowering RWAs on Wednesday, days ahead of the MCD polls on April 23, major associations of the Capital had mixed reactions over the promise.

"Once again political parties are out with their manifesto and each section of society is examining them with both hope and cynicism. Some of these promises simply look unreal, as there are no policies or laws to support them," said Sandeep Bali, president, Mehrauli RWA.

RWAs have on various occasions demanded more accountability from the corporation as well as an increased share of participation in local area decision-making.

However, Bali said, schemes such as waste segregation or installation of solar panels at rooftops have not been able to take off, as the Delhi government is still to frame policies regarding this.

The AAP manifesto, released by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, promises that payments to contractors will be made after verification by RWAs while the councillor funds will also be spent with their consent.

BS Vohra, president, Delhi Bhagidari Scheme, said, "The governments so far have failed to tap into the potential of RWAs in the development of local areas and neighbourhoods. Parties rope in RWAs only during elections and forget about their promises made soon after."

The Bhagidari scheme was started by the Sheila Dikshit-led government which registered RWAs for funds for carrying out development work in the area. According to Vohra, the scheme failed soon after that.