The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for the Delhi Legislative Assembly elections. The polls will be conducted in a single phase on February 5, with the counting of votes scheduled for February 8. Key dates include:
- Last date for filing nominations: January 17
- Scrutiny of nominations: January 18
- Last date for withdrawal of candidature: January 20
With the announcement, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into effect in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi and will remain in force until the election process concludes.
Voter Demographics and Preparations
The final voter list, published on January 6, 2025, recorded a total of 1,55,24,858 registered voters, reflecting a 1.09% increase since the previous update.
Campaigns in Full Swing
As the election approaches, political parties have intensified their campaigns:
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):
The BJP is targeting Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his alleged involvement in the Delhi Excise Policy case and is campaigning on promises of a “double-engine government.” BJP leaders have accused the AAP of corruption and misgovernance.
- New Delhi seat: BJP has fielded Parvesh Verma, former MP and son of former Delhi CM Sahib Singh Verma, to challenge Arvind Kejriwal.
- Kalkaji seat: Former MP Ramesh Bidhuri will contest against Delhi CM Atishi.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP):
AAP, aiming for a third consecutive term, is highlighting its achievements in education and healthcare sectors.
Congress:
After suffering consecutive defeats and winning no seats in the last two assembly elections, the Congress is making a comeback attempt:
- New Delhi seat: The party has fielded Sandeep Dixit, son of former Delhi CM Sheila Dixit.
- Kalkaji seat: Former MLA Alka Lamba will contest.
Previous Election Results
In the 2020 Delhi Assembly elections, AAP dominated with 62 out of 70 seats, leaving BJP with eight seats. Congress failed to secure any seats in the last two elections, despite ruling Delhi for 15 consecutive years before 2013.