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Delhi Bypolls See Tentative 38.5% Turnout Amidst Accusations of Foul Play
New Delhi, December 1, 2025 – Bypolls for 12 wards of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) concluded Sunday with a tentative voter turnout of 38.5%, according to the State Election Commission (SEC). The election, the first major face-off between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Congress after the Assembly election in February, saw 51 candidates vying for the vacant councilor seats.
While the SEC reported a largely smooth voting process with no major technical disruptions, the day was not without its share of controversy. The Congress party alleged inconsistencies in voter lists, claiming that the same photograph appeared for multiple voters in Ashok Vihar. The SEC acknowledged the complaint and forwarded it to the Election Commission of India, citing its limited ability to update electoral rolls in the short timeframe.
The AAP also raised concerns, with Delhi chief Saurabh Bharadwaj accusing a local Station House Officer of campaigning for the BJP in plain clothes and criticizing the EC for inaction. The BJP vehemently denied the charges, countering with accusations of “bogus voting” by AAP.
Nine of the 12 wards were previously held by the BJP and three by AAP. Chandni Mahal recorded the highest voter turnout at 55.9%, while Greater Kailash registered the lowest at 26.7%.
Despite a relatively low turnout typical of municipal bypolls, voters expressed hope that newly elected councilors would address stalled civic works. Mohammed Aashqeen from Chandni Mahal voiced concerns over pressing issues like congested lanes and licensing delays.
Counting of the votes is scheduled for December 3rd. The SEC will release the final voter turnout figures on Monday.
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