Bharat Bandh 'total failure' in Delhi: Dikshit

The Chief Minister, speaking in the Delhi Assembly, came down heavily on the BJP, accusing it of forcibly blocking roads and making the traders shut their shops in various areas of the city.

"The bandh was total failure in Delhi. I thank people of Delhi for not supporting the bandh. I spoke to the police commissioner who said only minor incidents have taken place," Dikshit said.

Accusing BJP workers of creating inconvenience to people by blocking roads and damaging DTC buses, Dikshit said all the markets, offices and other establishments remained open and life in the city was totally normal.

"There was no disruption in the city. All the major markets remained open. People have rejected the bandh call," she said in the assembly during a proposal moved by Congress leader to denounce the bandh call.

But contrary to Dikshit's claim, major markets in Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar, Laxmi Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, Defence Colony, Khan Market and Connaught Place remained closed though by evening hours some shops were opened.

About petrol price hike, Dikshit attacked BJP asking why the states ruled by the party have not withdrawn VAT on increased component of petrol price to provide some relief to the citizens.

Presenting the budget on Monday, Dikshit slashed VAT on the hiked price of petrol making the fuel cheaper by Rs 1.26. Congress ruled Uttarakhand and Kerala had also withdrew VAT on the hiked component of petrol.

"They should first learn before giving lectures to others," said Dikshit. MORE