A Comprehensive Analysis of the 2020 Delhi Legislative Assembly Election

Introduction

The 2020 Delhi Legislative Assembly election, held on February 8, 2020, was a pivotal moment in the political history of Delhi. With all 70 seats in the assembly up for grabs, the election saw a fierce contest between major political parties, primarily the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This article provides a detailed analysis of the election, highlighting key statistics, party performances, and the overall impact on Delhi’s governance.

Election Overview

The election witnessed a voter turnout of 62.82%, a slight decline of 4.65% from the previous assembly election in 2015 but an increase of 2.2% compared to the 2019 Indian general election in Delhi. The Aam Aadmi Party, led by Arvind Kejriwal, emerged victorious, securing 62 out of 70 seats, while the BJP managed to win only 8 seats. The Indian National Congress (INC) failed to win any seats.

Key Statistics

– Total Seats: 70

– Majority Required: 36

– Voter Turnout: 62.82%

– AAP Seats Won: 62

– BJP Seats Won: 8

– INC Seats Won: 0

– AAP Popular Vote: 4,974,592 (53.57%)

– BJP Popular Vote: 3,975,529 (38.51%)

– INC Popular Vote: 395,958 (4.26%)

Party Performance

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP):

The AAP, under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, continued its dominance in Delhi politics by winning 62 seats. This was a slight decrease from their previous tally of 67 seats in the 2015 election. The party’s popular vote share was 53.57%, reflecting a marginal swing of 0.71%.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):

The BJP improved its performance slightly, winning 8 seats compared to 3 in the 2015 election. The party’s popular vote share increased by 6.21% to 38.51%. Despite this improvement, the BJP was unable to pose a significant challenge to the AAP’s dominance.

Indian National Congress (INC):

The INC continued its decline in Delhi politics, failing to win any seats. The party’s vote share dropped to 4.26%, a decrease of 5.44% from the previous election.

Manifestos and Campaigns

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP):

The AAP’s campaign focused on its achievements over the past five years and promised further improvements in various sectors. Key points of their manifesto included:

– Jan Lokpal Bill

– Doorstep delivery of ration

– Pollution-free Delhi

– 24-hour piped water supply

– Garbage-free streets

– Pucca houses for slum-dwellers

– Free bus rides for students

– Underground cables for every household

– World-class roads

– Legal protection for street vendors

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):

The BJP’s manifesto emphasized development and welfare schemes, including:

– Housing for all by 2022

– Digitalization of government documents

– Loans for women entrepreneurs

– Special hostels for students from the Northeast

– Redevelopment of Old Delhi and Chandni Chowk

– Empowerment of transgenders

– Free sanitary napkins for women

– Special buses for college students

– 5% reservation for ex-servicemen in jobs and DDA flats

Indian National Congress (INC):

The INC’s manifesto focused on transparency and youth empowerment, with key points such as:

– Strong Lokpal

– Unemployment allowances

– Startup incubation funds

– 25% of the budget for fighting pollution and improving transport

– Environment ambassadors

– Jal Sanrakshan Board

District-wise Results

The AAP’s dominance was evident across various districts, with the party winning a majority of seats in most areas. Notable performances included:

– North Delhi: AAP won 7 out of 8 seats

– Central Delhi: AAP won all 7 seats

– North West Delhi: AAP won 7 out of 7 seats

– West Delhi: AAP won all 7 seats

– New Delhi: AAP won all 6 seats

Conclusion

The 2020 Delhi Legislative Assembly election reaffirmed the AAP’s stronghold in Delhi politics, with Arvind Kejriwal set to continue as Chief Minister for a third term. The BJP, despite improving its vote share, was unable to make significant inroads. The INC’s continued decline highlighted the shifting political landscape in Delhi. This election underscored the importance of effective governance and resonant campaign promises in winning voter support.