Delhi votes in key election as BJP eyes victory
Residents of New Delhi cast their votes in a crucial state legislature election where Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is projected to win an absolute majority in the 70-member assembly, according to TV exit polls. This could mark a significant shift in the capital territory's political landscape, where the BJP hasn't held power for over 25 years.
The election pits the BJP against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, who has dominated Delhi politics for two consecutive terms since 2015. Kejriwal, 55, who transformed from an anti-corruption crusader to a prominent political figure, faced a major setback when he was arrested on corruption charges before the election. Though released on bail, he resigned as chief minister to focus on campaigning.
The AAP, which emerged from an anti-corruption movement in 2012, had secured a landslide victory in the 2020 state legislature election, winning 62 of 70 seats, while the BJP held only eight. The party has built its support through pro-poor policies, including improvements to government schools, free healthcare, subsidized electricity, and women's bus transport.
Both parties have made similar promises during the campaign, including school improvements, free health services, electricity, and monthly stipends for poor women. The BJP hopes to capitalize on recent federal budget changes that reduced income taxes for the middle class, a key voting demographic.
Political analyst Neerja Chowdhury suggests that corruption allegations have damaged Kejriwal's image, though opposition parties argue these investigations are politically motivated. The case involves alleged bribes from a liquor distributor, charges which Kejriwal and his colleagues deny.
With more than 15 million eligible voters participating, the election results are scheduled to be announced, potentially reshaping Delhi's political landscape.
