Wed Feb 05 13:10:00 IST 2025: ## Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: High Stakes Battle Underway

**New Delhi, February 5, 2025** – Over 1.56 crore Delhi voters began casting their ballots today in a high-stakes single-phase election for the 70 Assembly seats. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), seeking a third consecutive term, faces strong challenges from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. A total of 699 candidates are contesting the election.

Voting began at 7 a.m. and continues until 6 p.m., with a paid holiday declared for both government and private sector employees in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Early voter turnout has been reported at 8.10% as of 9:30 a.m., with Mustafabad reporting the highest turnout (12.43%) and Chandni Chowk the lowest (4.53%).

Key races include the New Delhi constituency, where AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal is defending his seat against BJP’s Parvesh Sahib Singh and Congress’ Sandeep Dikshit. Other prominent figures contesting include Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri.

Voter concerns highlighted throughout the day included air pollution (despite its absence from major campaign platforms), water and drainage issues, and the threat of slum evictions. Positive feedback focused on improvements in government schools and Mohalla Clinics. Special provisions are in place for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, including e-rickshaws and accessible polling stations.

Allegations of voter suppression and bribery have been made by AAP MP Sanjay Singh, who condemned the detention of a Valmiki community leader and accused the BJP of distributing cash to influence voters. These claims are yet to be verified. The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) also reported that 20% of candidates with criminal records did not have their records disclosed or justified by their respective parties.

Political parties are actively urging their workers to monitor the election process closely to prevent any electoral malpractice. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal met with the Election Commission to highlight concerns about the misuse of Delhi Police.

The Election Commission has deployed significant security forces to ensure a smooth and fair election process. The final voter turnout will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this fiercely contested election.

Read More