Wed Feb 05 06:01:07 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Votes in High-Stakes Assembly Election
**New Delhi, February 8, 2025** – Delhiites went to the polls today in a crucial single-phased election to determine the next government for the Union Territory. Voting began at 7 am across 13,033 polling stations, with a strong voter turnout reported in the early hours. The election pits the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, in what is being described as a triangular contest.
Prominent figures from across the political spectrum cast their votes early, including President Droupadi Murmu, Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and S Jaishankar, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, AAP leader Manish Sisodia, BJP’s Bansuri Swaraj, and Congress’ Alka Lamba. Election Commissioner Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu reported smooth operations across polling stations and encouraged high voter participation.
The election campaign was marked by sharp rhetoric from all major parties. Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged voters to reject what he called the AAP’s “false promises” and address issues like pollution and infrastructure. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal appealed for support, framing the election as a choice between “truth, development, and honesty” versus “lies, hatred, and fear.” Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge called on voters to reward those who had worked for Delhi and reject those who had made empty promises. BSP chief Mayawati emphasized the importance of voting for the “welfare of all,” regardless of caste or religion.
High-profile candidates include Arvind Kejriwal (AAP) contesting from New Delhi, Atishi (AAP) from Kalkaji, and Manish Sisodia (AAP) from Jangpura. The BJP and Congress have also fielded strong contenders in these constituencies and across the 70 assembly seats. Early reports indicate a higher voter turnout compared to the 2020 elections. The results will be announced on February 8th.