'Sheesh Mahal' to liquor case: Factors behind AAP's Delhi setback
What's the story
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to return to power in Delhi after nearly 30 years, leading in 48 seats while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is at 22.
This is a major turnaround for the AAP, which has been ruling Delhi since 2015.
The party's loss can be blamed on multiple factors such as anti-incumbency, unfulfilled promises on air quality improvement, and corruption allegations over Delhi's liquor policy.
Voter fatigue
Anti-incumbency and unfulfilled promises plague AAP
Despite initial successes in the health and education sectors, the AAP suffered from voter fatigue after a decade in power.
Unfulfilled promises like improving air quality became a concern for Delhiites.
The BJP capitalized on these issues with its "double engine" promise, appealing to those frustrated with AAP's governance.
The party also faced flak over the expensive renovation of CM Arvind Kejriwal's official residence, which escalated from an estimated ₹7.91 crore to ₹33.66 crore.
Scandals
'Sheesh Mahal' controversy and liquor policy allegations
The BJP slammed Kejriwal over the expensive renovation of his official residence, which inflated from an estimated ₹7.91 crore to ₹33.66 crore. This controversy further sullied AAP's image.
Further, corruption allegations over Delhi's now-scrapped liquor policy haunted AAP. The policy was scrapped amid allegations of making Delhi a "city of drunkards."
High-profile arrests of AAP leaders, including Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, shifted focus from governance and fulfilling election promises.
Counterclaims
BJP counters AAP's claims, promises transparent welfare schemes
The BJP also countered AAP's claims that it would stop welfare schemes if elected. Instead, the BJP promised to continue these schemes transparently.
Fear-mongering tactics by AAP, like accusing Haryana of poisoning Delhi's water supply, seemingly backfired.
Delivery issues also hurt AAP's credibility. Promises like monthly payments to women weren't fulfilled, unlike BJP's successful implementation of similar schemes in other states.
Bloc discord
Internal contradictions within INDIA bloc weaken AAP
Internal contradictions in the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc also further weakened AAP's position.
Despite being allies at the national level, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attacked Kejriwal over corruption charges days before the elections.
For the BJP, this election was a prestige battle after staying out of power in Delhi for 27 years.