Modi's party projected to sweep Delhi election after 27-year drought

India held a significant state election in Delhi on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, involving over 15 million registered voters. This election was crucial as it tested Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal against the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, who had previously won the last two elections with substantial majorities. The AAP and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) shifted their campaigning strategies to focus on social welfare pledges to attract voters, particularly targeting poor women, students, and the elderly with promises of financial support. The BJP, which has not been in power in Delhi for 27 years, aims to leverage Modi's latest policies to regain loyalty among the electorate. As the voting commenced, heavy security was in place to ensure a smooth process amid significant environmental concerns, including poor air quality. Despite AAP’s notable previous performance, exit polls indicated that BJP might secure an absolute majority in the 70-member Delhi assembly. The forecast predicted BJP winning around 43 seats, while AAP might retain around 26, and the Congress party, once a major player, may secure only one. However, the reliability of exit polls has a mixed history in India, with past inaccuracies having led to skepticism. Many believe that the enthusiasm and campaign efforts made by the AAP could lead to a surprise result, as they have often contested prior predictions. The polling landscape, alongside Modi's legal troubles and dramatic shifts in voter expectations, further complicates the concluding analysis of the election. The results of the election will be revealed on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The stakes for this election were particularly high given concerns about Modi's electoral confidence since losing outright majorities in previous national elections, compelling BJP to strategize effectively to reclaim influence. Moreover, voter dynamics were being carefully scrutinized, especially regarding support among various demographics, including women. Political analysts noted a potential edge in favor of the AAP, bolstered by its social welfare initiatives that resonated with the urban populace. Given the context of Modi's party's ambitions to reverse years of opposition-led governance, this election could reshape Delhi's political landscape for years to come.