Key Points
- Election Schedule: Polling for the Delhi Assembly election will take place in a single phase on February 5, 2025, with results announced on February 8.
- Model Code of Conduct: The MCC has come into effect immediately, governing campaign conduct and political activities.
- Key Players:
- AAP: Seeking a third consecutive term under Arvind Kejriwal.
- BJP: Aiming to unseat the AAP after two terms of dominance.
- Congress: Contesting solo after parting ways with AAP.
- Electoral Demographics: Over 1.55 crore registered voters, including 2.08 lakh first-time voters aged 18–19 years, as per the latest rolls.
- 2020 Elections Recap: AAP won a landslide victory, capturing 62 out of 70 seats.
New Delhi – The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday announced the schedule for the Delhi Assembly Election 2025. The polls will be held in a single phase on February 5, with counting slated for February 8. The announcement marks the commencement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), ensuring fair and regulated campaigning across the national capital.
AAP Eyes Third Term, BJP Seeks Power Shift
The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, is looking to secure a third consecutive term, a feat achieved only once in Delhi’s electoral history. After stepping down temporarily as Chief Minister following his release on bail in a corruption case, Kejriwal has returned to helm his party’s campaign. His pitch to voters focuses on AAP’s track record in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), buoyed by recent victories in other state elections, is determined to wrest control from AAP. The party is banking on its national popularity under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and plans to highlight issues such as governance, law and order, and allegations of corruption against AAP.
The Congress, after a dismal performance in previous elections, is contesting solo this time. The party hopes to revive its presence in the capital, leveraging its legacy of long-term governance before AAP’s rise to power.
Demographics and Voting Dynamics
Delhi boasts a total of 1.55 crore registered voters, including 2.08 lakh first-time voters aged 18–19 years. The updated electoral rolls reflect an increase in voter participation potential, with younger voters expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome.
Election Timeline and Context
The election announcement closely mirrors the timeline of the 2020 polls, where dates were announced on January 6, voting occurred on February 8, and results were declared on February 11. In 2020, AAP swept the polls, winning 62 out of 70 seats, while BJP secured just eight, and Congress drew a blank.
Campaign Themes and Key Issues
- AAP’s Focus: Campaigns will emphasize achievements like Delhi’s education reforms, Mohalla Clinics, and subsidized electricity and water. Kejriwal has termed the election a “people’s court” verdict, confident of voter trust.
- BJP’s Strategy: The party plans to question AAP’s handling of corruption cases and governance challenges while promising better infrastructure, safety, and development.
- Congress’ Revival Attempt: Banking on its history and grassroots connect, Congress is hoping to recapture its lost voter base.
The Delhi Assembly Election 2025 promises to be a high-stakes battle among AAP, BJP, and Congress, with each party vying for a significant share of the capital’s electorate. With over 1.5 crore voters, including a sizable chunk of young participants, the polls will likely witness intense competition and vibrant campaigning.
The countdown to February 5 begins, and all eyes are on Delhi to see whether AAP retains its stronghold or if a political shift is in the offing.
