The Election Commission of India (ECI) is poised to announce the schedule for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections at 2 pm today, January 7, 2025. This announcement will set the stage for a high-stakes electoral contest among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Indian National Congress (INC). The elections for all 70 constituencies are anticipated to occur in a single phase in February, ahead of the current Assembly's term ending on February 15.
Political Landscape and Party Preparations
The AAP, under the leadership of former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, is striving for a third consecutive term. Kejriwal, a prominent critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, resigned as Chief Minister in September 2024 following his release from prison on bail in a graft case related to alleged irregularities in Delhi's liquor policy. He has expressed his intention to return to office if the electorate reaffirms their trust in him.
The BJP is determined to unseat the AAP, leveraging allegations of corruption and unfulfilled promises against the incumbent party. The BJP has released its initial list of candidates, signaling its readiness for the electoral battle.
The Congress, which failed to secure any seats in the 2015 and 2020 elections after governing Delhi for 15 years, is aiming for a resurgence. The party has announced its candidates, including former Delhi minister Asim Ahmed Khan, who will contest from the Matia Mahal constituency.
Key Issues and Campaign Strategies
The forthcoming elections are expected to focus on critical issues such as governance, development, corruption, and public services. The AAP is likely to highlight its achievements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure development during its tenure. Conversely, the BJP is expected to emphasize national issues and its vision for Delhi's future, while underscoring the alleged corruption and unmet promises by the AAP. The Congress will endeavor to position itself as a viable alternative, critiquing both the AAP and the BJP.
Constituency Battles
Notable contests are anticipated in key constituencies. In the New Delhi constituency, Arvind Kejriwal is set to face former BJP MP Parvesh Sahib Singh and former Congress MP Sandeep Dikshit, son of the late Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit. In the Kalkaji seat, Chief Minister Atishi will compete against Alka Lamba of the Congress and former South Delhi BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri.
Election Schedule and Voter Engagement
The ECI's announcement will provide detailed timelines for nominations, scrutiny, withdrawals, polling, and counting. The Commission has reported an unprecedented number of new voter registrations in Delhi over the past three weeks, with newly added women voters outnumbering men. This surge follows AAP's promise of ₹2,100 monthly allowances for women if victorious.
Conclusion
As Delhi prepares for the Assembly elections, the political atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The AAP seeks to defend its governance record, the BJP aims to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments, and the Congress strives to regain its foothold in the capital's political landscape. The electorate's decision will shape Delhi's future trajectory, making this election a critical juncture for all stakeholders involved.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
© Copyright 2024. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
