BJP's Victory in Delhi: What Were Key Factors Behind AAP's Decline and What Are Future Political Implications? Will Double Engine Transform Delhi?

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has achieved a historic victory in the Delhi Assembly elections-2025, marking its first win in 27 years by securing 48 out of 70 seats. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won 22 seats, while the Congress party failed to win any. Several factors contributed to AAP's decline and BJP's success, which may have significant political implications.

Role of RSS

The BJP, in collaboration with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), implemented a new strategy involving extensive grassroots engagement. They conducted between 80,000 to 1,00,000 drawing-room meetings, each with 5 to 25 participants, effectively reaching out to voters, particularly the Poorvanchali community.

Targeting AAP Leaders

Senior AAP leaders faced big challenges in campaigning, as they encountered protests and backlash in various constituencies. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal found it difficult to campaign as freely as in previous elections.

Kejriwal's narrative of helplessness

Kejriwal's narrative of helplessness in dealing with the central government resonated negatively with some voters. Frustration grew among constituents, leading some to question why they should support a party that appeared ineffective against the BJP.

Congress's Unexpected Activation 

While the Congress party did not win any seats, a controversial remark by Ramesh Bidhuri regarding Priyanka Gandhi galvanized its supporters, resulting in a slight increase in vote percentage that ultimately impacted AAP's performance.

Victory may enhance BJP's image

The BJP's victory in Delhi is likely to enhance its image after a series of electoral defeats in recent years. This win alleviates some of the scrutiny faced by Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah, particularly in the context of previous challenges posed by Kejriwal.

Although the Congress party did not secure any seats, its strategy of targeting AAP may provide a foundation for future electoral recovery. By positioning both AAP and BJP as rivals, Congress aimed to reclaim lost voter support.

The Congress party has reached a critical juncture in Delhi, facing its third consecutive defeat. The party must engage in introspection to determine how to revive its fortunes ahead of the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Environmental Concerns

Accusations against Haryana residents regarding the pollution of the Yamuna River have stirred discontent among voters, particularly in border areas.

Kejriwal's Leadership Challenge 

Following his own electoral defeat, Kejriwal's primary challenge will be to maintain unity within the AAP and pursue his political ambitions, potentially focusing on issues impacting Punjab under Bhagwant Mann's leadership.

The Potential for Transformation in Delhi

With a clear majority in both Delhi and at the national level, the Modi-Shah administration has the opportunity to drive significant changes in the capital. Their success or failure in this endeavor will have lasting implications for their political standing.

Prakash Kumar Pandey