The counting of votes for the Delhi Assembly elections commenced on Saturday under stringent security measures. Along with the Delhi results, vote counting is also underway for by-elections in Uttar Pradesh’s Milkipur seat and Tamil Nadu’s Erode seat.
The counting process began with postal ballots, followed by the opening of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at 8:30 am. A total voter turnout of 60.54% was recorded for the 70-member Delhi Assembly, which held elections on February 5.
In Delhi, the AAP is aiming for a third consecutive term, while the BJP is seeking to return to power after more than two decades. Congress, which held power in Delhi for 15 consecutive years, has struggled in recent elections and is hopeful for a rebound.
Congress candidate from the New Delhi constituency, Sandeep Dikshit, spoke about the possibility of a post-poll alliance, stating, “I have no idea about any alliance. It is a decision of the high command. Let the counting of votes happen.” Dikshit, who is contesting against AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and BJP’s Parvesh Verma, emphasized that the decision lies with the party leadership.
Exit polls released earlier this week generally gave the BJP an edge over the AAP. However, AAP leaders have downplayed these predictions, asserting that exit polls have historically underestimated their performance and expressing confidence in retaining power.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s campaign targeted the AAP over allegations related to the Yamuna River’s pollution and the renovation of Kejriwal’s official residence. Modi also criticized the AAP by using terms like “Aapda” (disaster) and “Sheesh Mahal” (palace) to describe Kejriwal’s administration.
On the other hand, the AAP emphasized its achievements in the education sector, claiming that the BJP would halt the provision of free education if it came to power. Arvind Kejriwal, the AAP’s national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister, asserted that the BJP’s victory would mean an end to the free education initiatives.
Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also held rallies to target Kejriwal and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia over their alleged involvement in the Delhi excise policy “scam.”
Key constituencies in the capital include New Delhi, where Kejriwal is contesting against Congress’s Sandeep Dikshit and BJP’s Parvesh Verma. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi is up against BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri and Congress’s Alka Lamba. The campaign period witnessed sharp exchanges among leaders from all three major parties.
While AAP has dominated the last two Delhi elections, the BJP is eager to break the trend and reclaim power in the National Capital after more than two decades.
