AAP’s candidate Satyendar Jain to contest from Shakur Basti: 5 key points about him
Aam Aadmi Party leader Satyendar Jain to Contest Delhi Assembly Elections
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Satyendar Jain has been announced as a candidate for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. He will be contesting from the Shakur Basti constituency as part of AAP’s fourth and final list of 38 candidates for the polls scheduled in February.
Architect Turned Social Worker
Satyendar Jain, an architect by profession, resigned from his position at the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to pursue a career in social work and politics. Hailing from Baghpat in Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Jain is a well-known social worker who has actively supported causes such as building a facility for visually impaired girls in Chitrakoot.
Political Journey and Contributions
Satyendar Jain’s political journey began with his participation in Anna Hazare’s Jan Lokpal movement, where he crossed paths with AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal. He quickly rose to prominence within the party and became one of its key members.
In 2013, during the historic Delhi Assembly elections, AAP secured a monumental victory, ending Congress’ 15-year rule. Satyendar Jain emerged victorious in the Shakur Basti constituency, defeating BJP’s Shyam Lal Garg. He went on to serve as Delhi’s health minister and held various portfolios including industries, power, and urban development during his three terms in office.
Healthcare Reforms and Controversies
As the health minister, Satyendar Jain introduced significant reforms in Delhi’s healthcare system, most notably the mohalla clinics under AAP’s flagship scheme. His efforts in improving healthcare earned him widespread recognition.
However, in May 2022, Satyendar Jain faced legal troubles when he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in an alleged money laundering case. The case, stemming from a 2017 FIR, accused Mr. Jain of money laundering through companies linked to him. The ED attached properties worth Rs 4.81 crore, including those associated with Mr. Jain’s businesses and his family’s assets. The chargesheet alleged the use of hawala funds to purchase agricultural land in and around Delhi. The AAP dismissed the allegations as baseless, and after spending over two years in jail, Satyendar Jain was granted bail in October 2024.
Looking Ahead to the Elections
As Satyendar Jain gears up to contest in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, his political journey is a mix of achievements and controversies. His track record as a social worker and politician, along with his contributions to Delhi’s healthcare sector, will be crucial factors for voters to consider when casting their ballots.