Delhi Elections: First-time voters set to influence Delhi’s political future
The voter rolls have been revised and updated and there is a record number of first-time voters for these elections
On Tuesday, the Election Commission announced the schedule for elections to Delhi Assembly. As per the announcement, all 70 seats of the Legislative Assembly of Delhi are scheduled to go to polls on February 5.
A triangular fight is slated for all 70 seats, with the incumbent Aam Admi Party, the main challenger Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress. While the BJP is looking to return to power after a long hiatus of 25 years, the AAP is eyeing a third consecutive term after comfortably winning the elections in 2025 and 2020 and the Congress is looking to recover lost glory. Currently, the AAP has 62 seats in the Assembly, while the BJP has the remaining eight and the Congress has drawn a blank in the last two elections.
The anticipation is building as political parties ramp up their campaigns, aiming to capture the attention of voters. The AAP, which has been in power in Delhi, hopes to retain its stronghold by focussing on issues like free electricity, healthcare and education. Meanwhile, the BJP aims to leverage its national popularity and promises of infrastructure development. The Congress, seeking to reclaim its lost ground, is emphasising its legacy of governance and pointing out gaps in the current administration’s delivery. Yet, for many voters, party manifestos are no longer enough.
As per the Election Commission of India, the voter rolls have been revised and updated and there is a record number of first-time voters for these elections, about 480,000 out of the total electorate of 15.5 million.
The upcoming election promises to be a defining moment for the electorate, with over 480,000 new voter ID applications and more than 82,000 deletions reshaping the voter rolls.
This dynamic shift reflects an evolving and diverse population eager to have their voices heard. New voices are joining the democratic process, while others, for various reasons, are stepping away. While political parties have engaged in heated debates, accusing each other of manipulation, the true focus remains on the voters, the individuals who bring their hopes, concerns, and aspirations to the ballot box.
And the young voters are enthusiastic about exercising their new-found rights and performing their democratic duties for the first time in these elections.
Priya Sharma, a 19-year-old college student, is among the thousands of young Delhiites preparing to cast her vote for the first time.
“It feels like I am stepping into a pivotal role in shaping the future of our city. I have been diving deep into the issues, following debates, and having long discussions with my friends. Voting is not just a task, it is a profound responsibility to make choices that are informed, thoughtful and impactful,” Sharma tells Media India Group.
“This election is not just about politics, it is about the future we want to build together. Every vote counts, and this is our chance to contribute to shaping that future,” says Sharma.
For many like Sharma, this election is more than just about choosing a leader it is about actively shaping the kind of governance they want to see in a city that is both vibrant and ever-changing.
“I want leaders who truly understand and address the challenges we face every day. Education is the foundation of our future, and it is heartbreaking to see so many students struggle due to lack of resources. Job creation is equally critical because without opportunities, how can we build a better life for ourselves? And women’s safety it is not just a talking point for me, it is a daily reality that needs immediate and decisive action. We are not just looking for promises; we are looking for leaders who will step up, take responsibility, and deliver tangible results,” Sharma adds.
The anticipation for these elections, expected to take place in February, is building among young voters who see this as a pivotal moment. Many, like Sharma, are drawn to the promises of change but also wary of political rhetoric.
The stakes feel particularly high this year, with the controversy over voter roll integrity adding to the election’s charged atmosphere. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) have locked horns over allegations of deliberate voter deletions. The AAP claims the BJP is filing bulk deletion requests in constituencies where they fear losing, while the BJP accuses the AAP of enabling illegal migrants to obtain voter IDs for electoral gains. Amid these allegations, first-time voters are determined not to let the noise distract them from their goals.
As political parties roll out promises to win over the electorate, the competition for votes is heating up. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal has promised INR 10,00,000 in life insurance and other benefits for auto drivers, along with a range of incentives aimed at different voter groups. Such promises highlight the focus on securing support from various segments of society. However, many young voters feel that their aspirations are being overlooked.
“This election is my first, and I don’t take it lightly. I have always dreamed of making my voice count in a system that seems so far removed from what I need. But at the same time, I can’t bring myself to vote for any party that doesn’t recognise the importance of investing in youth. I don’t want to waste my vote, but I also can’t support those who fail to address our struggles whether it is unemployment, education, or simply having a voice in the decisions that will affect us. This election is not just about choosing a leader, it is about choosing a party that cares about our future, the future of the youth. We deserve better, and it is time for the parties to start thinking about us too,” Amit Yadav, a collage-going student tells Media India Group.
Political parties have recognized the influence of these young voters and are tailoring their campaigns accordingly. The AAP is highlighting its track record in education and healthcare, while the BJP emphasises infrastructure development. Meanwhile, the Congress is attempting to appeal to the youth by promising fresh perspectives and revisiting its legacy of governance. Yet, for many first-time voters, party affiliations matter less than tangible outcomes.
Sunita Devi, a homemaker whose 18-year-old son will also vote for the first time, believes this generation is more aware than ever.
“My son has been researching every candidate. It is not like before when people voted based on family loyalties. These kids want to know what the leaders have done and what they will do,” Devi tells Media India Group.
Despite the challenges and controversies, the enthusiasm of first-time voters shines through. For them, this election represents a hope for change, progress and a better future.
“It is empowering to know that my vote can shape the direction of this city. We are the future, and it is time for us to take the reins,” says Sharma.
As Delhi’s electorate swells with fresh voices, the impact of these young voters is yet to be seen. But their optimism and determination signal a shift, one that could redefine the political landscape of the capital in the years to come.
