From corruption to civic issues: BJP's winning formula for Delhi’s 2025 elections

Delhi: In a dramatic turn of events, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has staged a remarkable comeback in Delhi, overcoming a 27-year-long struggle for power. The BJP's victory in the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections signals a new era for the Capital, marked by a strong focus on governance and civic issues rather than the ideological polarisation that previously defined political discourse.

A campaign built on governance and local issues

The BJP's victory can be attributed to a multifaceted campaign that struck a chord with voters. For years, the party had struggled in Delhi, losing six consecutive elections between 1998 and 2020. However, the 2025 elections saw the BJP adapt to the political landscape by focusing on practical issues. By addressing concerns like poor roads, sewage, and water problems, the BJP presented itself as the party of change.

As BJP national vice-president Baijayant Panda noted, "The strongest reason behind the BJP’s historic victory was the unwavering trust of Delhi’s people in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guarantee." The party not only emphasized honest governance but also countered the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) welfare programs with its own set of promises, ensuring they were aligned with voter concerns.

Corruption allegations weaken AAP’s image

The BJP’s campaign was successful in highlighting corruption cases against AAP leaders, including the infamous liquor policy case and the controversial redevelopment of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's bungalow, dubbed the "Sheesh Mahal." These cases, according to Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, were significant in eroding AAP’s credibility: "The AAP leaders spent the last five years in corruption and covering them up. They did no work for the people."

The BJP strategically used these cases to remind voters of AAP's failures in governance and their disconnect with ground realities. A sustained probe into these issues helped weaken AAP's appeal, especially among urban middle-class voters.

Welfare schemes: The BJP's counter-offensive

The BJP also took a more proactive stance on welfare schemes, matching and surpassing AAP’s offers. While the AAP had promised ₹2,100 per month for women, the BJP raised its offer to ₹2,500. The party also expanded healthcare benefits under the Ayushman Bharat scheme and promised free education from kindergarten to post-graduation.

This shift in strategy proved vital, with political analyst Tanvir Aeijaz remarking that "The BJP has fought elections taking the AAP head on… It has also not engaged in a polarising campaign like 2020, which did not work in a cosmopolitan city like Delhi."

Local outreach: The slum strategy

A pivotal element in the BJP’s success was its outreach to slum dwellers, a traditionally strong base for AAP. The BJP's "jhuggi vistar" (slum outreach) program engaged with voters in Delhi’s 750 slums, addressing issues like garbage, water, and sewage. This effort helped the party gain traction among an important electorate demographic, ensuring a significant impact on 20 constituencies.

A historic shift: BJP's resurgence in Delhi

The 2025 Delhi Assembly election marks the BJP's triumphant return to power in the Capital. The party's victory not only reflects a shift in voter sentiment but also showcases the importance of focusing on governance and welfare over ideological disputes. As the BJP continues to strengthen its presence among the urban middle class and poorer sections of society, the 2025 polls will undoubtedly be seen as a turning point in the city's political landscape.