Wed Feb 05 05:11:41 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: High Stakes Battle Underway

**New Delhi, February 5, 2025** – Voting is underway in the high-stakes Delhi Assembly elections, with over 1.56 crore electors determining the fate of 699 candidates across 70 constituencies. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), seeking a third consecutive term, is facing a strong challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, both aiming for a resurgence.

Polling began at 7 a.m. and will continue until 6 p.m. A paid holiday has been declared for both government and private sector employees in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Early voter turnout, crucial in determining the outcome, is being closely monitored. As of 9:30 a.m., the overall turnout stood at 8.10%, with Mustafabad recording the highest at 12.43% and Chandni Chowk the lowest at 4.53%.

Prominent figures, including President Droupadi Murmu, several Union Ministers, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, cast their votes early. Other notable voters included Lieutenant Governor V. K. Saxena and several key political candidates.

Voter concerns highlighted throughout the day include inadequate civic amenities such as clean water and drainage, and the poor condition of roads. Many voters expressed their hope for improved education and healthcare facilities. The government has made special provisions for senior citizens and differently-abled voters, including providing e-rickshaws for transportation to polling booths.

The Election Commission has deployed extensive security measures, including paramilitary forces, Delhi Police personnel, and home guards, particularly at sensitive polling booths. A Queue Management System (QMS) app is being utilized to manage crowds. The Commission also reported that 6,980 out of 7,553 eligible voters under the home voting facility have already cast their ballots.

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) released a report highlighting that 20% of candidates with criminal records contesting the elections had not disclosed or justified their records. All three major parties – AAP, BJP, and Congress – are urging their workers to remain vigilant against any electoral malpractice and ensure fair voting procedures. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal even met with the Election Commission to address concerns about alleged BJP manipulation of the electoral process through the Delhi Police.

The day’s voting is being closely watched as the results will significantly impact Delhi’s political landscape. The high voter turnout from the 2020 assembly elections (62.59%) serves as a benchmark, contrasting with the lower turnout (56%) in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The final results are expected to be a closely contested race between the three major parties.

Read More