AAP To Contest Delhi Election Alone, as confirmed by Arvind Kejriwal, who dismissed any possibility of an alliance with Congress. Speaking on Thursday, the AAP national convener reiterated that the party will rely on its own strength for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections.
Arvind Kejriwal Rules Out Alliance
Arvind Kejriwal made it clear that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is determined to contest the Delhi assembly elections independently. Addressing reports of potential seat-sharing talks between AAP and Congress under the Opposition’s INDIA bloc, Kejriwal posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Aam Aadmi Party will be fighting this election on its own strength in Delhi. There is no possibility of any alliance with Congress.”
This statement reinforced the party’s earlier stance, with Kejriwal categorically stating earlier this month that AAP has no plans to form alliances as it aims for a third consecutive term in Delhi.
Reports Of Alliance Talks Denied
Reports had suggested that Congress and AAP were in the final stages of discussions for a potential alliance in Delhi, creating speculation about seat-sharing agreements. However, Kejriwal’s latest remarks have put these rumors to rest, reaffirming AAP’s commitment to contesting solo.
AAP’s Candidate List Highlights Key Changes
On Monday, the AAP released its second list of 20 candidates for the Delhi election, revealing significant changes in its strategy. The party has dropped 17 sitting MLAs, replacing them with new candidates. Notable changes include Manish Sisodia, who will now contest from the Jangpura constituency instead of Patparganj. Educator Awadh Ojha has been nominated for Patparganj.
Three familiar faces—Manish Sisodia, Rakhi Birla, and Deepu Chaudhary—have been re-nominated, highlighting the party’s confidence in its experienced candidates.
Congress’s Declining Presence In Delhi
The Congress, which ruled Delhi for 15 consecutive years, has struggled in recent elections. In the 2020 assembly polls, the party failed to secure even a single seat, with AAP dominating the results by winning 62 out of 70 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to win eight seats.
This declining performance has raised questions about Congress’s relevance in Delhi politics, making the possibility of an alliance with AAP a topic of significant interest.
Delhi Congress Criticizes Kejriwal
Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee president Devendra Yadav recently criticized Arvind Kejriwal, holding him responsible for the deteriorating law and order situation in the national capital. Yadav alleged that women in Delhi are facing increased incidents of gang wars, firing, murder, rape, harassment, and snatching.
Yadav further demanded that Kejriwal seek the resignation of Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, drawing a parallel to how Kejriwal demanded the resignation of former Chief Minister Sheila Dixit during the Nirbhaya case.
AAP’s Dominance And Strategy For 2025
AAP’s overwhelming victory in the 2020 assembly elections has positioned the party as the dominant force in Delhi politics. By opting to contest alone, AAP appears confident in its ability to secure another term without relying on alliances.
The party’s decision to replace a significant number of sitting MLAs with new faces signals its intent to bring fresh energy and ideas to its governance. Kejriwal’s leadership and AAP’s performance in key sectors like education and healthcare remain central to its campaign strategy.
Congress’s Uphill Battle
For Congress, the upcoming election is critical to regaining its foothold in Delhi. The party’s failure to win any seats in the past two assembly elections has weakened its influence, making it challenging to pose a significant threat to AAP or BJP.
However, the absence of an alliance with AAP may further diminish Congress’s chances, as the two parties will now compete directly for votes in several constituencies.
BJP’s Role In The Upcoming Election
While AAP and Congress engage in their rivalry, the BJP remains a formidable challenger in Delhi. Having won eight seats in the last election, the BJP will aim to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments and target AAP’s governance record.
The BJP’s campaign is likely to focus on issues like law and order, urban infrastructure, and local governance, positioning itself as a strong alternative to AAP’s leadership.
The Road Ahead For Delhi Politics
The decision of AAP To Contest Delhi Election Alone reflects Arvind Kejriwal’s confidence in the party’s achievements and grassroots support. With no alliance in sight, the upcoming assembly election promises to be a three-way battle between AAP, BJP, and Congress.
As the election date approaches, all eyes will be on how these parties navigate the political landscape to secure their position in the nation’s capital.