New Delhi, Feb 04 (V7N) – The Union Territory of Delhi is set to go to the polls on Wednesday (February 5) in a crucial 70-seat Assembly election. The primary contest is between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while Congress is expected to play a minor role, as predicted by opinion polls.

Key Election Details

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced that more than 1.55 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots, including over 2 lakh first-time voters. The election will determine whether AAP retains power for a fourth consecutive term or if BJP can reclaim Delhi after 27 years.

AAP and Congress are contesting all 70 seats, while the BJP has fielded candidates in 68 constituencies, leaving two seats for its NDA allies, JD(U) and LJP.

BJP’s Strategy: Targeting AAP on Corruption

The BJP has aggressively campaigned against former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, focusing on the excise (liquor) policy case. Several AAP leaders, including ex-Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, ex-Health Minister Satyendra Jain, and MP Sanjay Singh, were jailed over corruption allegations. While they are now out on bail, the issue remains central to BJP’s election narrative.

BJP has yet to announce a chief ministerial candidate, relying instead on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity and his recent development project announcements for Delhi.

AAP’s Promise: Cash Support for Women

Arvind Kejriwal, who has served as Delhi’s Chief Minister three times, is banking on his government’s populist policies. In past elections, his administration won support with schemes like:

  • Free electricity and water for the poor
  • Free bus travel for women
  • Mohalla clinics for healthcare
  • Improved government schools

This time, AAP’s main promise is monthly cash assistance of ₹2,100 for girls if the party retains power.

Kejriwal has acknowledged that the contest is tougher this time. While AAP suffered a heavy defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Delhi—losing all seven seats to the BJP—he remains hopeful about victory in the Assembly elections.

Congress: Hoping for a Comeback?

Once a dominant force in Delhi, Congress has been in decline, failing to win a single seat in the last two Assembly elections. Despite contesting all 70 seats, its leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, are not seen as serious contenders for power.

However, Congress hopes to increase its vote share and secure a few seats, which could make it influential in the event of a hung assembly.

Can AAP Hold Off BJP’s Challenge?

With no pre-poll alliance between AAP and Congress, Kejriwal faces a direct battle against the BJP. The key questions remain:

  • Can AAP recover from its Lok Sabha election debacle?
  • Will BJP’s anti-corruption campaign sway voters?
  • Can Congress make a meaningful comeback?

The final verdict will be known on Saturday (February 8) when votes are counted.

END/RH/AJ