After the assembly election defeat, the major challenge APP faces is to secure its power in Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
In 2022, the AAP secured a majority winning 134 out of 250 wards. This result marked a shift in the political landscape of the capital, given the AAP’s success in the assembly polls just two years prior.
As of now, a total of 17 councillors contested in recently held Delhi assembly elections out of which 11 of BJP’s councillors seven won the assembly election while three AAP councillors became MLAs.
Now after the assembly elections, there are 239 councillors left in the MCD out of which AAP has 119 and BJP has 113 councillors. Current situation shows the majority of AAP but this situation could be changed if by-elections are held for 11 councillors. In order to secure its power in MCD, AAP will have to secure at least three seats.
Though there are less than three years in MCD elections, if by-polls are held this will be a crucial test for AAP’s political credibility and its ability to govern the capital at the civic level.
With BJP holding majority in assembly, it will be significantly more challenging for AAP to run the MCD even if it secures the mayor’s chair.
The stronghold of the BJP in the MCD underscores the challenges AAP faces in consolidating power at the local level. Additionally, the BJP’s robust organizational structure and influence within the MCD may complicate AAP’s efforts to sway key voters and party representatives.
As the mayoral elections approach, AAP faces the dual challenge of contesting a strong BJP presence in Delhi while managing expectations within its own ranks. The outcome of these polls will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future political landscape of Delhi and will set the stage for upcoming state and national elections.
The recent electoral setback will force the party to recalibrate its approach, seek new alliances, and prioritize effective governance to have any chance of securing the mayor’s office in the upcoming polls.
