Vijay Goel’s idea of protest: Gas-guzzling SUV with ‘odd’ number

Fined Rs 4,000 by the traffic police, Goel said: “I am doing this as a symbolic protest against the Kejriwal government’s failure to do anything in five years to curb pollution in Delhi. It is now enacting a drama and election stunt through the odd-even scheme.”

AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh hit back: “While the AAP government is trying its best to combat pollution, Goel violated the odd-even scheme in support of pollution… BJP has exposed their pro-pollution mindset.”

Congress leader Ajay Maken tweeted: “As a lawmaker, how can Goel deliberately break the law? I’ve been the most vocal critic of Kejriwal, but I will never ‘contribute to air pollution’ as a way of protest. Grow up, Vijay Goel.”

In response, Goel tweeted: “Dear Ajay bhai, You would remember that Gandhi ji, a lawyer, did satyagrah by making salt. Just like that, my protest against odd-even is symbolic too. Happy that you are most vocal about my actions and want me to grow up. Please concentrate on growing your party also. Thanks for advice.”

Goel had also violated the second edition of the odd-even scheme in April 2016.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal car-pooled with Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain and Labour Minister Gopal Rai to reach the Secretariat. And while Deputy CM Manish Sisodia rode a bicycle to work from his residence, Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot travelled in his OSD’s car.

Later in the day, Gahlot met Goel with a bouquet of flowers, urging him not to violate the odd-even rule as it was aimed at bringing down pollution.

The odd-even scheme will continue from 8 am to 8 pm until November 15.