The initial indications from Delhi Assembly elections reveal that the Aam Aadmi Party is heading towards a significant loss. According to the Election Commission's website, at 9:37 AM, the Bharatiya Janata Party was leading on 32 seats while the Aam Aadmi Party was ahead on 14 seats. Reports from Aaj Tak suggest the BJP is leading on approximately 50 seats with AAP trailing at 19. This clearly points to an imminent major defeat for the Aam Aadmi Party. A pertinent question arises: why didn't the leader of the AAP, former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, gain sympathy from the people of Delhi akin to Jharkhand’s Chief Minister Hemant Soren, despite their similar circumstances? Both leaders faced the tribulation of jail while in office, yet there is a stark contrast in the public's sentiment towards Kejriwal. Let's delve into the reasons behind this substantial loss.
1- Unfounded Accusations and Lies Angered Even Arvind Kejriwal's Supporters
Arvind Kejriwal has a history of leveling accusations against his adversaries, often having to apologize later. This has tainted his image, making his words carry less credibility. His accusations against the Haryana government for allegedly sending poisonous water to Delhi created chaos. He alleged that the Haryana government intended to cause genocide in Delhi, spreading mayhem. Claiming that Delhi's water board engineers intercepted Haryana's water at the border, thus saving thousands of lives, was even seen as exaggerated by his staunch supporters in Delhi. Haryana’s CM Nayaab Saini debunked Kejriwal’s narrative by drinking Yamuna water at the Delhi border.
2- The 'Sheesh Mahal' Damaged His Public Image
Before entering politics, Arvind Kejriwal promised to end the VIP culture, refusing luxury cars, bungalows, and security. However, once in power, he indulged in luxury, accepting not only luxury vehicles but also top-tier security from the Punjab government despite having Z-plus security from the Center. His extravagant residence, dubbed the 'Sheesh Mahal' by the media, severely dented his image. The CAG report questioned the expenses on the CM's residence, and the Delhi government faced criticism for not presenting numerous CAG reports in the assembly, even drawing flak from the High Court.
3- Failing to Learn From Yogi’s Slogan, Congress and AAP Remained Divided
During the Maharashtra elections, Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister emphasized unity with a slogan targeted at the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. Despite witnessing Haryana's close miss at forming a government due to division, Delhi's AAP and Congress couldn't unite. The failure to learn from the slogan 'aar paar' resulted in significant electoral setbacks for both.
4- Unable to Launch 2100 Rupees Scheme for Women
Hemant Soren’s winning strategy in Jharkhand involved assuring women a monthly stipend, a policy Arvind Kejriwal aspired to implement but couldn't execute in Delhi. This left the public skeptical about his promises. Even initiating this scheme a month earlier might have changed the outcome significantly, bolstering public confidence.
5- Dirty Water Supply and Capital's Filth
Arvind Kejriwal’s electoral victories have been bolstered by 'freebies', but basic amenities have remained elusive for the people, leaving them distressed. The critical issue was the supply of clean drinking water, with Delhi grappling for it, exacerbated by the tanker mafia. Despite promising 24-hour clean water supply, barely any was available, let alone clean water. Furthermore, with AAP governing the MCD, there was no excuse. This consistent failure eroded public trust in AAP.
6- Skepticism Over Kejriwal Becoming the Next CM
Despite court rulings, Arvind Kejriwal resigned from the CM post, leading to Atishi being named the acting CM. The public understood that even with a victory, Arvind Kejriwal might not reclaim the CM office, casting doubts on resolving Delhi's persistent issues. Had AAP fielded another candidate for the CM post, the scenario might have been different.
