BJP reclaims Delhi after 27 years: A city divided in hope & concern

Delhi voters express hopes and fears over election results

After 27 years, Bharatiya Janata Party has reclaimed power in Delhi, ending the decade-long dominance by Aam Aadmi Party. Delhi’s residents seem divided over the outcome of the Assembly elections, as some celebrate the change, while others worry about its impact on governance, development and policies affecting everyday life.

In a historic political shift, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a decisive win in the assembly elections held in Delhi, ending the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) dominance in the capital. With 48 seats, BJP has taken control, while AAP saw its score dive from 62 to barely 22, and Congress failed to open its account for the third time running.

This marks the first time in 27 years that BJP has gained power in Delhi, signalling a major political transformation in the city’s governance.

As Delhiites wake up to this new political reality, reactions on the ground are mixed. Some view it as a much-needed change, hoping for better governance and development, while others fear what this shift might mean for issues like education, healthcare, and local policies.

Media India Group spoke to Delhiites to understand their expectations, concerns, and opinions about this political shift. What led to BJP’s sweeping victory? What do the people of Delhi hope for from this new government?

Many residents were thrilled by the outcome and did little to hide their cheer.

“I am really happy that the BJP has won in Delhi. I truly believe they will bring much-needed changes to the city. For so many years, Delhi was ruled by AAP, and while they had their time, everyone needs change at some point. Sometimes, change is necessary, and I think this will be a good one. I have faith that the BJP will prove itself through its work. They have always focused on the betterment of people, and I am confident they will continue to do so in the coming days. I expect improvements in governance, better infrastructure, and overall development that benefits the common people. Now that they have the mandate, it is their responsibility to show Delhi that they can deliver on their promises,” Harikash Kumar, a 27-year-old employee at Haldiram, a fast-food company, tells Media India Group.

Voters from different sections of society and from different parts of Delhi welcomed the election results, adding that they expected the winning party to deliver on its promises.

“I have voted for the BJP, and I truly believe they will do a good job. This is the capital of the country, and I am confident they will deliver on their promises. Having lived in Delhi for years, I have seen the condition of infrastructure, especially the roads, deteriorate. It is something that really needs attention, and I expect this government to take concrete steps to improve it. Delhi deserves better, and I hope to see real development under this leadership,” Jyoti Sharma, a 27-year-old freelancer in the media sector who has been working in Delhi for four years, tells Media India Group.

“Whatever happens will be for the good, but I really hope the authorities take serious steps to address the issues plaguing the city. The drainage system is in a terrible state and air quality keeps getting worse. These are basic necessities, and I expect the government to take action and make Delhi a better place to live,” Minni, a 45-year-old private sector employee, tells Media India Group.

But not everyone was satisfied with the election results as hardcore supporters of AAP and Indian National Congress expressed their disappointment and apprehension over the BJP victory.

“I voted for Congress, so obviously, I am not happy with BJP winning. I can’t believe it, but I have to accept reality because no one can change what has already happened. That said, now that BJP is in power, I expect this government to remove the ‘free’ culture from Delhi. I don’t think it works. The government should encourage people to work hard, earn and contribute, rather than depend on freebies. Giving everything for free ultimately affects our economy, taxes go up, and it is the common people who bear the burden. People don’t realise that when the government hands out free benefits, someone else is paying for it. If we remove these free schemes, India will develop. Only when our economy grows can the government truly focus on essential sectors like health, education, and infrastructure,” Sonu Biduri, a businessman from Sarita Vihar in south Delhi, tells Media India Group.

“This news is completely unbelievable, but we have no choice except to accept it. However, I am certain that Delhi will soon see the consequences of this decision. BJP is not a party that works for the poor and in the coming months, the underprivileged in Delhi will experience the direct impact of their governance. I strongly believe that BJP will start removing people who live in shelters and on the roadside because, for them, the poor simply do not exist. Their focus has always been on the rich and the elite, and they have never genuinely worked for the welfare of those struggling to survive,” Rahul Singh, 40-year-old resident of Saket, tells Media India Group.

“I really don’t expect anything from this government. I know they won’t bring any real development to the city. Instead, their priority will be to displace the poor, push them out of sight, and make policies that benefit only a certain section of society. The reality is that under BJP’s rule, the gap between the rich and the poor will only widen. While some people may celebrate this victory today, I am sure that in a few months, the same people will begin to realise the mistake they have made,” he adds.

“I voted for Manish Sisodia, not because I support BJP, but because I found him to be a good leader. However, deep down, I am aware that this government might not bring much change on the ground. Still, I want to hold on to hope and expect the best. Manish Sisodia has made so many promises during the elections and I hope he will fulfill them. The people of Delhi have placed their trust in him and now it is his responsibility to ensure that their faith is not broken. There are many issues that need immediate attention better infrastructure, affordable healthcare and improved education. I just hope that instead of political battles, the focus remains on real development that benefits the common people,” Virender Kumar, a food vendor, tells Media India Group.

“There is not much to say governments come and go, but unless they focus on basic needs, nothing really changes. If the government prioritises education and healthcare, things will improve for everyone. Our tax system is flawed why is GST imposed on education, including books? That is the worst thing. Similarly, medical equipment is also taxed under GST, even though healthcare is a necessity at different stages of life. When we are young, we need education and when we are old, we need healthcare. Taxes on these two sectors should be removed so that people can afford them,” Bhanu Singh, a 47-year-old food stall owner from Jasola tells Media India Group.