As 2024 draws to close, Aam Aadmi Party remains a prominent and influential party in Indian politics; the party led by former chief minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal who is known for his distinctive approach to governance has had a year marked by challenges, reforms, and controversies.
This year, the party managed to consolidate its base in Punjab challenging the Congress and BJP in the region. It also made ways into Gujarat and Goa, where it contested the local elections, marking its growing footprint beyond Delhi.
Kejriwal’s efforts to position AAP as a national alternative to the two major political parties including BJP and Congress has been critical. His leadership was integral to AAP’s aggressive campaigns as the opposition looks to unite against the BJP in 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The AAP government in Delhi focused on healthcare, education, and other social welfare programmes. It continued to make headlines with its robust policies on health and education. These initiatives have been touted as revolutionary for the national capital. This year, the government extended these schemes and improved the access to healthcare and education for the urban poor. The government also extended the power subsidy till 2025.
However, the journey wasn’t without challenges, the party convener also faced criticism for the administration’s handling of air pollution in the city. The AAP government continued to work towards green initiative and air quality improvements.
The party has always faced stiff resistance from the Lieutenant Governor, regarding the control of services. The tussle over the control of services including police and bureaucracy continues to be a point of contention.
The tug of war between both the parties witnessed a strong pull and drag. However, the tension peaked after several members of his government were already arrested in the controversial excise policy case, Arvind Kejriwal was also on the Enforcement Directorate’s radar. He managed to dodge multiple summons by the central agency before he was arrested on March 21 after Delhi High Court rejected his plea for anticipatory bail. He then functioned as Delhi chief minister from behind the bars for seven months. Later he was granted bail by the Supreme Court on conditions.
On September 22, 2024 Atishi became the youngest woman to hold the top office. She took oath as 17th chief minister of Delhi. However, her tenure will be a short time period as Delhi Assembly elections are round the corner.
Ahead of the 2025 assembly polls, the AAP party got a major jolt as its three members left the party and joined BJP and Congress. Former Delhi ministers Kailash Gahlot and HS Balli joined BJP.
Meanwhile, Rajendar Pal Gautam joined the Congress party.
On the international front, Kejriwal focused on strengthening diplomatic relations, especially with countries looking to model certain aspects of public services after Delhi’s innovations. In 2024, he engaged with international leaders to promote AAP’s model of governance, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare. He visited various countries, positioning himself as a leader with a vision for not just India, but the global stage, highlighting Delhi’s success with initiatives such as the Mohalla Clinics.
Key Takeaways for 2024
Leadership and National Aspirations: Kejriwal’s national political ambitions continue to grow, although challenges remain in expanding AAP’s influence outside Delhi. His appeal as a non-traditional, clean governance leader resonates with certain segments of the population, but much of his focus remains on Delhi.
Governance and Welfare: Kejriwal’s strong governance in the fields of healthcare and education continues to define his leadership, but controversies surrounding air pollution and the city’s overburdened infrastructure also persisted.
Political Tension with the Centre: Party’s confrontations with the LG remained a prominent feature of his year, especially regarding Delhi’s autonomy. Despite the tension, his ability to rally his supporters around issues of state rights and welfare initiatives remains a key aspect of his leadership.
International Diplomacy: Kejriwal’s international presence grew as he promoted Delhi’s governance model globally, positioning himself as a leader with a vision for both India and the world.
Kejriwal’s year in 2024 was marked by both growth and struggles. As he continues to navigate the challenging political landscape of India, his leadership in Delhi remains a cornerstone of his political identity. His ambitions to expand AAP’s influence beyond the capital have seen mixed results, but his governance model and populist approach continue to resonate with large sections of the Indian electorate. As 2024 closes, Kejriwal’s role in shaping India’s political future is undeniable, but the coming year will likely determine whether he can translate his local successes into national political dominance.
