New Delhi, Dec 3 (UNI) The Aam Aadmi Party has claimed that the recent Municipal Corporation of Delhi ward by-election results have shown a significant political setback for the ruling BJP and its Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta.
By-elections were held in 12 wards previously held by the BJP. While the BJP secured victories in 6 wards, the AAP highlighted that this was a reduction from the 9 wards the party held before the polls. The AAP also alleged misconduct in the counting of the Ashok Vihar ward, claiming their candidate had initially won by 179 votes before the result was altered.
Addressing a press conference, AAP Delhi State President Saurabh Bharadwaj stated that the by-polls were a “litmus test” for the 10-month-old BJP government. He asserted that despite Chief Minister Rekha Gupta campaigning extensively in every ward and using government machinery, the BJP’s tally fell. “Her chair is now under serious threat; Delhi may soon see a new Chief Minister,” Bharadwaj said.
The AAP leader further accused the BJP of relying on manipulation and family patronage, contrasting it with his own party’s approach. He claimed that AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal insisted on giving tickets only to dedicated party workers, resisting pressure to field family members of legislators.
Bharadwaj also referenced comments allegedly made by BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj, suggesting that officials would not work if an opposition councillor won. “Why won’t officers work? Do they not receive salaries? The truth is that the BJP stops officers from working,” he said.
AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha interpreted the results as public anger against the BJP. “BJP’s countdown in Delhi has begun. Delhi’s people have expressed their anger,” Jha said, echoing the sentiment that the Chief Minister’s position is shaky in the party.
Former AAP MLA Vinay Mishra claimed the results indicated a return of public faith in Arvind Kejriwal. “If Assembly elections are held today, AAP will form the government in Delhi with a massive majority,” Mishra concluded.
