Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a decisive victory in the Delhi Legislative Assembly elections, marking its return to power in the capital after 27 years. The elections, held on February 5, 2025, witnessed the BJP winning 48 out of the 70 assembly seats, effectively ending the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) decade-long governance in the region.
The AAP, led by Arvind Kejriwal, managed to secure 22 seats, a significant decline from its previous tally of 62 seats in the 2020 elections. Notably, several prominent AAP leaders, including Kejriwal himself, faced defeats in their respective constituencies. The Indian National Congress continued its downward trajectory, failing to win any seats for the third consecutive election, despite a slight increase in its vote share.
The voter turnout was recorded at approximately 60.54%, indicating a robust engagement from the electorate. The BJP’s campaign focused on promises of development and improved governance, resonating with a broad spectrum of voters across the city. In his address following the victory, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to the people of Delhi, stating, “We have created history in Delhi. Delhi is not just a city; it is mini-India.”
This electoral outcome is particularly noteworthy given the context of the 2024 general elections, where the BJP, despite emerging as the single largest party, lost its absolute majority in the Lok Sabha, securing 240 out of 543 seats. The party formed the government with the support of its allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The Delhi victory thus serves as a significant boost for the BJP, reinforcing its political standing.
The AAP’s decline can be attributed to various factors, including internal challenges and legal troubles faced by its leadership. Arvind Kejriwal, who had been a prominent critic of the Modi government, was arrested in March 2024 on corruption charges, which he claimed were politically motivated. He was released on bail in September 2024 but continued to face legal and political hurdles leading up to the elections.
The BJP’s return to power in Delhi is expected to have significant implications for the city’s governance and its relationship with the central government. Observers anticipate a renewed focus on infrastructure development, public services, and policies aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Delhi’s residents. As the new government takes shape, the citizens of Delhi await the fulfillment of the promises made during the campaign, hopeful for a period of progress and effective governance.
