The 2025 Delhi Assembly elections witnessed a voter turnout of 57.89% by the close of voting at 6 pm, marking a decline of approximately five percentage points from the 2020 elections. While the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were embroiled in a fierce battle, this election also saw claims of malpractices, including alleged fake voting and bribery.
Voting Process Amid Allegations
The elections were held in a peaceful and festive atmosphere, with long queues forming outside polling stations as early as morning, and many voters waiting to cast their ballots even after the official close at 6 pm. Delhi’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) reported that more than 57% of the 1.56 crore eligible voters had participated by 5 pm, with numbers expected to rise as data from all 13,766 polling stations were updated.
Despite the smooth process at most polling stations, the election was marred by allegations of electoral malpractice. The AAP and BJP accused each other of manipulating the vote, with some locations witnessing clashes between party workers. One of the most intense disputes occurred in Seelampur, where BJP leaders alleged that burqa-clad women were attempting to cast fraudulent votes. The Delhi Police swiftly intervened, denying any fraudulent activity in the area.
The AAP also accused the BJP of distributing money to sway voters, with reports suggesting that some party workers attempted to influence voters at Jangpura. Delhi’s election authorities, including the Flying Squad and District Election Officer, were prompt in addressing these claims.
A Look at Key Constituencies and Voter Engagement
Voter turnout varied across constituencies. Areas like Badli and Dwarka recorded higher participation, with Badli seeing a turnout of 60.88% by 5 pm. On the other hand, constituencies like Karol Bagh reported a relatively low turnout at 47.40%. In some areas like Mustafabad, voter engagement was notable, with a turnout of 56.12%.
This election also marked a historic first for several voters. In Majnu-ka-Tilla, Pakistani Hindu refugees, who were granted Indian citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, cast their votes for the first time. Additionally, first-time voters, elderly citizens, and transgenders were particularly vocal about their enthusiasm in participating in this democratic process.
Exit Polls and Predictions
Exit polls began to surface soon after voting concluded, and the results were mixed. Several polls predicted a victory for the BJP, while others suggested that AAP would retain power for a fourth consecutive term. Two polls even forecast a tight contest, with the BJP edging out the AAP in the final tally.
Arvind Kejriwal, who is contesting from New Delhi constituency for the fourth time, dismissed the exit poll predictions, asserting that AAP would form the government once again. “People will vote for those who have worked for the city,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to furthering Delhi’s development. His wife, Sunita Kejriwal, expressed confidence that the electorate would make the right choice, rejecting the notion of “hooliganism.”
The BJP, which is looking to make a comeback after more than 25 years of absence from power in Delhi, was equally optimistic about their chances. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva claimed the party would secure a more significant victory than the exit polls suggested.
Prominent Voters and High-Profile Campaigns
Prominent personalities from both political parties and the public sphere were seen casting their votes, further amplifying the election’s significance. President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, along with Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were among the early voters. The high-profile nature of the election underscored the stakes for all parties involved.
Kejriwal, who has been the Chief Minister of Delhi since 2015, made a heartfelt appeal to voters to choose leaders who prioritize public welfare. Meanwhile, BJP leaders, including Amit Shah and Parvesh Verma, called on Delhiites to vote for change and a government that would work for the city’s growth, promising improvements in infrastructure and governance.
Polling Stations Festooned in a Festive Atmosphere
Polling booths across the city were adorned with colorful posters and messages promoting the election, some featuring well-known figures like Lata Mangeshkar and other celebrities. The atmosphere was festive, with election workers providing saplings to voters as a symbol of their participation in the democratic process.
In terms of voter demographics, the election saw notable participation from senior citizens. Shanti Rani Bhattacharya, a 92-year-old resident of Sarojini Nagar, proudly cast her vote, showcasing the resilience and spirit of democracy in action.
Tensions Escalate: Allegations of Malpractices
While the election was largely peaceful, it did not go without controversies. The BJP accused the AAP of engaging in fraudulent activities, particularly in constituencies like Seelampur and Jangpura. The AAP, in turn, retaliated by alleging that the BJP was using money to influence voters in some areas. Delhi Police remained vigilant, ensuring that any reports of malpractice were promptly addressed.
In a related incident, AAP worker Sanjay Singh claimed that one of their party members had been detained by the police for attempting to force people into voting for a particular party. These tensions, though isolated, highlighted the heightened political climate in the lead-up to this crucial election.
Election as a Milestone for Democracy
Despite the tensions, the general mood of the election remained one of democratic engagement. Vice President Dhankhar’s statement on the significance of voting captured the essence of the day: “Voting is the mother of all rights, and democracy holds meaning only when every person casts their vote judiciously and freely.” His words served as a reminder of the democratic foundation that underpins the election process.
The Way Forward
With voting concluded and results to follow, the Delhi Assembly elections of 2025 have set the stage for a new chapter in the city’s political history. The election has been an intense spectacle of claims, counterclaims, and aspirations. While the exit polls provide some indication, only the official results will confirm whether the AAP will retain power for a fourth term or if the BJP will break its 27-year dry spell in Delhi.
As Delhi looks forward to a new government, the stakes are higher than ever, with both parties making promises of a brighter, better future for the people of Delhi. Whether it’s the promise of improved infrastructure, better healthcare, or a crackdown on corruption, Delhiites have exercised their most powerful tool—voting—to decide their future.
