The 2025 Delhi Elections: Policy, Politics, and Public Perception 

Moderator: Team CDBA, SHDRF
Enumerator: Ishan Saxena

Constitution Area: R. K. Puram, Patel Nagar, Moti Nagar

The 2025 Delhi Assembly election is poised to be a highly competitive triangular contest between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress party. AAP, which has been in power since 2015, is expected to campaign on its governance model, emphasizing improvements in education, healthcare, and public transportation (Jha, 2021). The BJP, leveraging its strong national presence and governance at the central level, will focus on its broader ideological appeal and economic policies. Meanwhile, the Congress, which has seen a decline in electoral influence in Delhi, is likely to attempt a resurgence by positioning itself as an alternative to both AAP and BJP.
Additionally, smaller regional parties and independent candidates are expected to influence specific constituencies where local issues override national concerns. The role of digital media and social outreach strategies is anticipated to be more significant than ever, as political parties increasingly use data analytics and targeted campaigns to mobilize voters.

Governance and Freebie
The voter base in Delhi is divided along economic lines in their perception of governance. A significant section of the lower-income population remains staunchly in favor of AAP, largely due to the party's welfare schemes such as free electricity, subsidized water supply, and free bus services for women. Conversely, the middle class, particularly those in salaried jobs and small businesses, express concerns about AAP’s reliance on subsidy-driven policies rather than long-term development strategies. Many argue that while freebies benefit a segment of the population, they do not address core infrastructural deficits such as road maintenance, sewage system improvement, and economic growth.
Many people are staunch supporters of the AAP and Congress parties. These supporters primarily belong to the lower-income and poor-class segments, while a significant portion of the middle and educated classes, who lead a relatively secure life with basic needs met, believe that a developed state is necessary. Many middle-class citizens argue that the Delhi government has not followed a clear development strategy; instead, it has relied on providing freebies to gain the support of the target population and retain power in the state. Some individuals point out that essential civic infrastructure, such as the sewage system, has not been repaired for one or two years, leading to the spread of diseases like dengue and malaria. Additionally, there are claims that the government has engaged in appeasement politics to secure votes from specific communities.
As a result, the state appears divided into two major categories: the lower class, which benefits from free electricity, free bus services for women, and free education, thereby supporting the AAP government; and the middle class, which prioritizes cleanliness (Swachh Delhi) and development (Viksit Delhi). The latter group frequently argues that they do not receive any government benefits as they do not fall within the lower economic bracket.
Many public servants, including teachers and small business owners in Patel Nagar and RK Puram, previously supported AAP for a second term, believing that five years were insufficient to address all of Delhi’s problems. However, they now express disappointment and no longer have high hopes for the government.

State-Center Relations
One of the major points of contention in Delhi’s governance has been the strained relationship between the state government and the Lieutenant Governor (LG), who represents the central government. Respondents highlighted that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has repeatedly accused the LG of obstructing developmental initiatives by delaying administrative approvals. Critics argue that such conflicts reflect broader inefficiencies in federal governance, as constitutional ambiguities often lead to power struggles between the elected state government and centrally appointed officials.

Lower-Income Groups
A section of the electorate, especially street vendors and daily wage workers, strongly supports AAP, citing tangible benefits received through welfare schemes. A flower vendor in Moti Nagar, who has been in business for three decades, expressed an emotional connection with AAP’s local representatives, describing their accessibility and engagement with the community. The voter shift from Congress to AAP among the urban poor highlights a broader trend where welfare policies influence electoral choices (Rai, 2022).

Middle and Upper Class:
In Moti Nagar, a row of shopkeepers has a clear stance on the upcoming Delhi elections. When asked who they believe will form the next government, they unanimously express support for the BJP, citing their opposition to what they call "freebie politics" in the capital. They argue that this time, they have received no tangible benefits—no free electricity, no free education—and since their families, including their wives and daughters, primarily use the metro or private vehicles for transportation, free bus services hold no value for them. Additionally, they point out a major flaw in the electricity subsidy policy: those consuming up to 200 units receive free electricity, but the moment their usage exceeds this limit, they are billed for the entire amount, leading to frustration and resentment among middle-class consumers.
A shopkeeper who has worked in the area for the past decade acknowledges that AAP’s policies, such as clean water supply, free electricity, and free bus services, have benefitted many. However, he also notes a growing sentiment that the BJP is reviving Hindu Jansankhya (demographic identity politics) with a clear agenda, which has garnered significant support.
Regarding the election outcome, he remains uncertain. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections demonstrated that BJP’s "Abki Baar 400 Paar" slogan did not translate into expected results, and AAP struggled to make a strong impact. In the 2024 parliamentary elections, BJP won all seven Delhi seats, but the dynamics of the state elections remain unpredictable. As of now, he believes the contest is shaping up to be a close fight between two parties, rather than a three-way competition.

Business Community:
A businessman in Ramesh Nagar voiced strong opposition to the Modi-led central government, alleging that it deliberately creates bureaucratic and political hurdles for AAP. He claimed that despite BJP’s emphasis on Hindutva, many slaughterhouses in Delhi are owned by Hindus. When asked for sources, he cited Muslim Mirror, arguing that such contradictions expose BJP’s hypocrisy. On the other hand, another businessman from Patel Nagar harshly criticized Modi’s leadership, accusing the BJP of adopting a "crab mentality"—a tendency to pull down political opponents rather than fostering fair competition. He argued that BJP systematically obstructs Kejriwal’s governance, leading to public frustration and a growing sense of disillusionment with democracy.
While some business owners remain skeptical of AAP, others see the party as a necessary political alternative. In Patel Nagar, a photocopy and property dealer expressed his continued support for AAP. Having voted for the party in both previous elections, he remains convinced that Kejriwal’s leadership represents a significant shift in Indian politics. Recalling AAP rallies in 2013–14, he described witnessing the party’s rise as a historic moment, one that inspired him to remain loyal to its vision.
However, middle-class frustration with AAP appears to be rising. A senior secondary school teacher in Patel Nagar, who preferred to remain anonymous due to his status as a public servant, noted increasing dissatisfaction within middle-class families. Many taxpayers, he observed, feel ignored by the government, as they receive no direct benefits from AAP’s welfare schemes. A middle-class woman voiced similar concerns, criticizing AAP’s focus on freebies while failing to improve infrastructure. She argued that despite paying taxes, roads remain damaged, sewage systems are poorly maintained, and utility bills often contain unexplained discrepancies. Additionally, she complained about the poor quality and inconsistent supply of water in areas like Malviya Nagar and Uttam Nagar.
Religious politics further complicate voter sentiment. A kirana store owner in Munirka expressed strong disapproval of AAP, alleging that the party has disproportionately favored the Muslim community while neglecting middle-class concerns. “If we don’t vote for BJP, Muslims will rule over us,” he remarked, reflecting a sentiment prevalent among certain voter segments. His frustration highlights a broader discontent among sections of the Punjabi business community, who believe that AAP prioritizes lower-income groups and minority communities at the expense of the middle class.
As Delhi heads into a heated election season, the divide between AAP supporters and critics remains stark. While small business owners benefiting from government schemes continue to back Kejriwal, middle-class taxpayers and some sections of the business community are growing increasingly disillusioned. The upcoming elections will determine whether AAP’s welfare-driven approach continues to resonate with voters or if BJP’s promise of governance and economic stability will shift the political landscape.

Jat Voters
The Jat community, a politically influential group that played a decisive role in the unexpected outcome of the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections, also constitutes about 10 percent of Delhi’s population. While Congress was widely expected to win in Haryana, the election results defied predictions, showcasing the Jat community’s unpredictable voting patterns.
A 26-year-old school teacher from Delhi, identifying as a staunch BJP supporter, stated that he voted for the party in 2024 and intends to do so in the future. He believes that BJP’s governance model will lead to a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India). However, he strongly criticized the government’s economic approach, arguing that it primarily distributes freebies to the lower class while ignoring the middle class. He expressed frustration that taxpayers are burdened while subsidies are used to strengthen a specific voter base, which, in his view, damages the economy.
Contrastingly, a housewife living in government quarters in RK Puram expressed satisfaction with AAP’s freebie policies, particularly the Mohalla Clinics, which she finds useful for medical services like X-rays. She noted that during Congress rule, the chief minister and party workers actively engaged with the public, a practice that she feels AAP has continued. However, she also voiced concerns about employment generation, arguing that neither AAP nor BJP has addressed this critical issue effectively.
She further lamented that middle-class taxpayers bear the financial burden of welfare schemes while receiving little in return. According to her, the government promotes lower-class settlements (bastis), leading to increased strain on resources, which negatively impacts the lifestyle and security of salaried middle-class families.

Corruption
Several government employees in Delhi express growing frustration over what they perceive as a governance model favoring the lower class for political gains while neglecting administrative efficiency and middle-class concerns. A senior employee in the Public Works Department (PWD) claims that lower-income individuals are being allotted prime housing, whereas he has repeatedly applied for government quarters without success. According to him, corruption is rampant, with junior officials allegedly securing housing through bribes ranging from ₹1-2 lakh.
Another government employee from RK Puram voiced deep discontent, citing doglapan (double standards), widespread corruption, and professional inequality. He claimed that inefficiencies in governance, such as fake electricity bills and administrative delays, have eroded his faith in the system. He even refrained from voting in 2014, believing no party truly represents government employees or common citizens.
He also recounted an incident from AAP’s first tenure in 2013, where Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal allegedly threatened a librarian over a minor dispute regarding a lost book. According to him, this exemplifies the arrogance within the administration.
The frustration extends beyond government offices. A kirana store owner alleged that an AAP MLA, engaged in corrupt practices by allowing her staff to charge ₹200 for official document signatures in her absence. Many believe such incidents discourage civic engagement and create widespread distrust in the political system ahead of the upcoming elections.

Mohalla Clinic
Mohalla Clinics are a public healthcare initiative in Delhi, receiving mixed responses. A 25-year-old resident informed me that while a clinic exists in his area, it has been without a doctor for the past five months. Frustrated, he remarked, "All parties are corrupt; I won’t vote for anyone," and sarcastically asked me to take away the dabba (useless box) of the AAP government. Some Patel Nagar residents claimed that AAP workers occasionally use closed clinics for drinking.
A tea vendor in Munirka Market highlighted concerns about clinic operations. He noted that limited working hours (10 AM – 2 PM) pose challenges for lower-middle-class patients. Additionally, patients must bring their own syringes for blood and sugar tests, as the clinic only provides basic medicines like cough and fever medication, while expensive drugs are unavailable.
Despite these drawbacks, the initiative still benefits many, especially elderly patients who receive free X-rays. However, the middle class largely avoids these clinics, doubting the quality of treatment and medicines. While Mohalla Clinics serve a crucial role, concerns over operational hours and the limited range of free medicines persist. If the government seeks political goodwill through such schemes, improving service flexibility and expanding medicine coverage would be essential.

Education Policy
A government school lecturer, while diplomatic in their response, admitted that the education policy needs revision. The government provides free food to lower-class children, but the absence of failure threats in exams raises concerns about academic discipline. While some Delhi government schools boast impressive infrastructure, there is a significant shortage of teachers, making student management difficult, especially during elections.
A tea vendor in Munirka criticized the system, stating that teachers receive government quarters, allowances, and salaries ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per month but do not make sufficient efforts to educate students. He emphasized the need for a standardized teacher qualification framework.
Many parents question why AAP leaders do not enroll their own children in government schools if the education system is truly improved. Middle-class families often struggle to secure admissions, as schools claim seats are full. This, along with inadequate infrastructure maintenance, discourages them from considering government schools over private institutions.

Yamuna
The Yamuna issue is a key topic in the Delhi Assembly elections. Many residents believe that AAP’s biggest failure is its handling of the river's pollution. While Kejriwal blames Haryana’s Nayab Saini for contaminating the water, people question when he will take concrete action to clean the river. Some even allege that Kejriwal receives party funds from chemical companies, preventing him from taking strict measures.
A property dealer pointed out that Delhi’s location is surrounded by chemical industries, significantly contributing to environmental degradation. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive pollution control strategy.

Alcohol Scam
If AAP loses the elections, many believe the primary reason will be the liquor policy scandal involving leaders like Sanjay Singh, Manish Sisodia, and Arvind Kejriwal. The "one bottle free with one" scheme allegedly harmed lives and tarnished Kejriwal’s image. Residents of Ber Sarai called it one of Delhi’s biggest scams, questioning how liquor in the capital became cheaper than in Goa.
Kejriwal, once critical of Sheila Dikshit’s luxuries, now resides in a ₹45 crore bungalow, further fueling allegations of hypocrisy. Some claim these accusations are politically motivated attempts to defame AAP, portraying Kejriwal as an honest leader whose image is being sabotaged by rivals. AAP supporters argue that issues like GST, which impose taxes even on essential goods, affect the middle class more than the liquor policy scandal.

Law and Order
Concerns over law and order have led many middle- and upper-class citizens to lose faith in the system. A chemist shop owner mentioned the rising presence of juvenile gangs in his area, with chain-snatching and theft becoming rampant. While Delhi Police operate under the central government, residents expect them to take stricter action against crime.
Many also see Delhi’s governance issues as a failure of the federal structure, with ongoing conflicts between the state and central governments. Some believe that aligning the ruling party at both levels would streamline policy implementation and improve infrastructure.

Minority Question
AAP’s alleged appeasement of Muslims remains a controversial issue. A small businesswoman from Moti Nagar praised AAP’s MLAs for being approachable, but many believe the party disproportionately favors the Muslim community.
A resident, Ashwini Bundela, pointed out that Kejriwal visits mosques, provides ₹17,000 stipends to Maulvis, but does not extend similar support to Hindu temples and priests. While promoting minority welfare is necessary, critics argue that a Chief Minister should represent all communities equally.

Hindutva Revivalism
India’s secular fabric is well-documented in its Constitution, but after 11 years of BJP-RSS rule, there has been a resurgence in Hindu political consciousness. Many Hindus now compare the policies of Congress, AAP, and BJP, particularly in the global context of India’s growing reputation.
Jai Shankar, in his book, likens Indians to Hanuman—unaware of their own strength but destined to realize it. The absence of major terrorist attacks in the past 11 years is seen as BJP’s key achievement in national security.
However, internal BJP politics remains a challenge. Leaders like J.P. Nadda have downplayed RSS’s role, and the party’s increasing reliance on defectors from opposition ranks has upset loyal BJP workers. Many believe sidelined party workers either abstain from voting or opt for NOTA instead of supporting rival parties. If BJP wins the 2025 Delhi elections, it may adopt the "Yogi Model," emphasizing Hindu nationalism and strong governance. AAP’s failures in governance could inadvertently strengthen BJP’s position in the state.

Declining Voter Participation
A professor explained that voter turnout varies across social classes. Wealthy individuals often abstain, preferring leisure over political engagement, while the lower class sees voting as a means to secure government benefits like free electricity and bus services.
Past AAP campaigns (e.g., Imandar Aadmi, Imandar Sarkar in 2013-14) initially resonated with people, creating hope for systemic change. However, corruption allegations have since disillusioned many, leading to a decline in voter participation. The common perception—"All parties are corrupt and self-serving"—further discourages electoral engagement.
A university sector officer noted that middle-class citizens, in particular, feel neglected by all political parties and often abstain from voting. Comparative data highlights that political consciousness differs by state—West Bengal had an 80% voter turnout in past elections, while Uttar Pradesh recorded only 65%. Understanding these regional voting behaviors is crucial to improving civic participation in future elections