NEW DELHI: The political atmosphere in Delhi is heating up as the assembly elections approach, scheduled for 2025, with major parties gearing up for what is expected to be a closely watched contest. This time, the scene is set for what appears to be a three-way battle among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress.
Fired up by past successes, AAP has previously won the last two assembly elections with impressive margins, but now finds itself grappling with anti-incumbency sentiments and various scandals, including its top leaders being embroiled in legal troubles. Critically, the party's reputation was stained by allegations linked to the liquor policy and overspending on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence renovations.
Despite these challenges, AAP is trying to turn the narrative around by emphasizing its achievements. Officials highlight improvements made in education and health services—key factors they hope will resonate with voters. To address rising inflation, AAP has promised to provide financial relief, proposing to allot Rs. 1,000 per month to support poor women, citing the necessity of addressing economic reality.
The BJP, meanwhile, looks to capitalize on AAP's vulnerabilities and is motivated by its recent performances in Haryana and Maharashtra. The party has observed AAP's previous alliances, noting how these factions share voter bases, and is strategically positioning itself to garner support from voters disillusioned by either party.
BJP insiders express optimism, noting, “If Congress can perform just slightly above its last election debacle, it could pull enough votes from AAP.” This suggests the potential for strategic realignment among voters if they perceive the BJP as the viable alternative to the ruling party.
Compounding AAP's difficulties are reports of internal dissent, particularly after senior leaders defected to BJP, creating resentment among loyal members. The former AAP Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia recently shifted his constituency, hinting at instability as AAP tries to solidify its electoral strategy.
On the other hand, Congress is now seeking to recapture lost ground, having failed to secure any seats in the previous two assemblies. It has launched its candidate selections with notable figures, including Sandeep Dixit, the son of former Chief Minister Sheila Dixit, contesting against Kejriwal from New Delhi. This move is significant, as Sheila Dixit held the position of Chief Minister for several terms and is remembered for her focus on infrastructural development.
Recent commentary surrounding Congress highlights the need for renewed focus and strategy. Shanawaz Alam, Congress's Bihar co-in-charge, asserted the party should not act as the subordinate partner within the INDIA coalition. He stressed, “We must reinforce the ideological foundation of the coalition, rather than create a hierarchy of power.” This indicates the party’s intent to reclaim its standing among allies and establish its priorities as part of the broader bloc.
While Congress aims to leverage its historical alignment with infrastructure and development through Sheila Dixit’s legacy, current dynamics present opportunities for party rehabilitation within electoral politics. Congress hopes to utilize its previous governance record as its main campaign weapon against their rivals.
Controversies such as allegations of illegal voting and instances of voter suppression are weighing heavily on AAP's campaign. Allegations have arisen of election officials purging names from the voter rolls, which AAP claims disproportionately affects its supporters, as the party accuses the Election Commission of bias aimed at supporting BJP.
With tensions rising and public discourse intensifying, all three parties are bent on strategies to sway voters. Each party's fortunes will, without doubt, rely on public perception, the resolution of their internal issues, and how well they can present themselves as the best option for governance.
The upcoming Delhi assembly elections promise significant political shifts and are expected to be pivotal for all involved, especially considering the potential influence of voter dissatisfaction and the varying strategies employed by competitors vying for their loyalty.
