New Delhi : Ahead of the upcoming Delhi assembly election, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has promised free medical treatment for senior citizens in all government and private hospitals under the proposed ‘Sanjeevani Yojana.’ The scheme, aimed at citizens aged 60 and above, was unveiled by AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal.

Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal highlighted the rising cost of treatment as the biggest concern for elderly citizens. He assured that there would be no other eligibility criteria for the Sanjeevani scheme except a valid voter ID card of Delhi. “Whether you wish to get treated in a government hospital or a private hospital, the entire cost of your treatment will be covered by the Delhi government,” Kejriwal announced. He emphasized that the scheme would have no restrictions based on income, and treatment would be free for everyone, rich or poor. “There will be no upper limit on the expenses,” he added.

AAP stated that over 25 lakh senior citizens are expected to benefit from the scheme, which will issue health cards without any discrimination. The party also clarified that the scheme will not impose any socio-economic restrictions. Government sources indicated that while no detailed expenditure estimates have been calculated yet, a comprehensive policy and operational modalities will be developed in due course.

The party has released its candidate list for all 70 constituencies, with Kejriwal set to contest from New Delhi and incumbent Chief Minister Atishi running from Kalkaji.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has called a preparatory meeting this week to finalize details for the upcoming elections. Sources suggest that the poll dates will be announced soon after the meeting.

The Sanjeevani Yojana is seen as a significant step in AAP’s strategy to consolidate its voter base among senior citizens. With healthcare emerging as a pivotal issue, the promise of free treatment could play a crucial role in shaping the electoral narrative in Delhi.