With the Delhi Assembly elections on the horizon, the political temperature in the capital is rising
As the Delhi Assembly Elections 2025 draw closer, the political landscape of the national capital is abuzz with activity. Major players—the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress—are gearing up for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle. With 70 seats at stake, every party is refining its strategies to sway the electorate in its favour. The Aam Aadmi Party, led by Arvind Kejriwal, remains a dominant force in Delhi politics. In the 2020 elections, AAP swept the polls, securing 62 out of 70 seats, while the BJP managed only 8, and Congress failed to open its account. However, the 2025 elections present new challenges for the party, including anti-incumbency sentiments and a more aggressive opposition. One of the most intriguing aspects of AAP’s strategy is the decision to field senior leader Manish Sisodia from the Jangpura constituency. Political analysts suggest this move reflects a calculated attempt by AAP to strengthen its presence in South Delhi, which has traditionally been a mixed battleground. Sisodia’s administrative acumen and popularity could be pivotal in securing a win in this crucial region.
Yet another aspect is Kejriwal’s decision to go solo. Despite initial speculations about a possible alliance between AAP and Congress, Arvind Kejriwal has now said that AAP would have no electoral alliance with Congress. The strained relationship between the two parties, fueled by ideological differences and a history of rivalry, seems to have outweighed any potential advantages of a partnership. Additionally, AAP’s leadership might perceive a tie-up with Congress as a liability, given the latter’s diminished presence in Delhi politics. But it also diminishes its own chances as vote split in this scenario is imminent. Congress has dedicated vote bank in Delhi and that could hurt AAP. On the other side, the BJP, aiming to reclaim its footing in Delhi, is expected to focus on its core voter base and polarising issues to galvanise support. The party has intensified its outreach efforts and is likely to emphasise nationalistic themes and the central government’s achievements under Prime Minister Modi. However, its challenge remains breaking through AAP’s stronghold on key urban constituencies. Congress faces an uphill battle as it tries to regain relevance in Delhi’s political scene. The party’s lack of significant organisational groundwork and leadership issues have kept it on the sidelines in recent years. However, Congress might attempt to consolidate minority vote and traditional voters to make a dent in the electoral outcome.The decision to avoid an alliance with Congress underscores AAP’s confidence but also raises questions about its ability to counter a potentially consolidated opposition. As candidates hit the campaign trail, the capital is set to witness a clash of ideologies, promises and personalities. For now, all eyes are on the unfolding strategies as Delhi gears up for another defining electoral battle.
