Mon Apr 21 19:47:48 UTC 2025: ## AAP Withdraws from Delhi Mayoral Polls, Paving Way for BJP’s “Triple Engine” Rule

**New Delhi, April 22, 2025** – The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) dramatically withdrew from the upcoming Delhi Municipal Corporation (MCD) mayoral elections on Monday, handing a victory to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This decision allows the BJP to form a “triple engine” government, controlling the MCD, Delhi state government, and the central government.

AAP cited a series of internal setbacks, including councillor defections and alleged BJP destabilization tactics, as reasons for their withdrawal. The party, which won the MCD elections in December 2022, has seen its majority dwindle due to defections and resignations, leaving them with fewer councillors than the BJP. The absence of an anti-defection law within the MCD exacerbated this situation.

Senior AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj stated that the BJP will now be solely responsible for addressing Delhi’s civic issues, from garbage management to water shortages. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, however, attributed AAP’s withdrawal to waning public support and internal unhappiness within the party.

The BJP, nominating Raja Iqbal Singh for Mayor and Jai Bhagwan for Deputy Mayor, welcomed AAP’s decision as an admission of defeat. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva celebrated the prospect of a “triple engine” government. The Congress, fielding its own candidates, expressed disappointment in AAP’s actions.

AAP leader Atishi countered, accusing the BJP of employing various strategies to undermine the AAP’s MCD government. She emphasized that AAP’s withdrawal gives the BJP full responsibility for delivering on its promises to Delhi’s citizens.

The MCD elections were scheduled for April 25th. The BJP is now poised to assume control without a formal contest.

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