The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially declared the schedule for the Delhi Assembly elections, set to take place on February 5, 2025. The results will be announced on February 8, 2025.
Election Timeline:
Notification Issuance: January 10, 2025
Deadline for Nominations: January 17, 2025
Scrutiny of Nominations: January 18, 2025
Withdrawal of Candidature: January 20, 2025
Polling Day: February 5, 2025
Vote Counting: February 8, 2025
The current 70-member Delhi Assembly’s term is set to end on February 23, 2025, making this election critical for forming a new government. This poll is anticipated to be a closely fought contest between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Indian National Congress (INC).
Major Political Players and Strategies
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP):
AAP is vying for a third consecutive term. Arvind Kejriwal, who stepped down as Chief Minister in September 2024 following allegations of corruption, is contesting from the New Delhi constituency. Atishi Marlena, who succeeded Kejriwal, is running from the Kalkaji constituency. The party has already declared candidates for all 70 seats, reflecting its confidence in retaining power.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):
The BJP aims to capitalize on the controversies surrounding AAP. Parvesh Verma, a prominent party leader, will compete against Kejriwal in New Delhi, while Ramesh Bidhuri is set to challenge Atishi Marlena in Kalkaji. The party has released its first list of 29 candidates and is expected to announce more soon.
Indian National Congress (INC):
The Congress party is looking to regain its foothold in Delhi politics. It has declared candidates for 48 constituencies, including Sandeep Dikshit, son of late former Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, who is likely to contest from the New Delhi seat.
Election Commission’s Focus on Fair Elections
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has encouraged Delhi’s citizens to participate actively in the voting process, aiming for a higher voter turnout than in previous years. The ECI has taken measures to ensure the elections are free and fair, addressing concerns about voter rolls and polling procedures.
With the Model Code of Conduct in effect, political parties are expected to strictly adhere to guidelines. The campaign period promises to be dynamic, with parties focusing on issues such as public welfare, infrastructure, and governance to sway the electorate.
As Delhi gears up for this crucial election, all eyes are on the key players and their strategies to secure a mandate in one of India’s most politically significant regions.
