AAP's boycott of the Delhi mayoral election virtually assures a BJP victory. Raja Iqbal Singh is likely to become mayor unopposed, resulting in a "Triple Engine" government in Delhi.
Delhi Mayor Election 2025: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced a boycott of the mayoral election, choosing not to field a candidate. The party claims this decision is in the best interests of Delhi's citizens, asserting that the BJP should now bear full responsibility for the capital's governance.
BJP Candidate's Victory Considered Certain
Raja Iqbal Singh has been nominated as the BJP's mayoral candidate. With the opposition withdrawing, his victory is considered a foregone conclusion. Congress candidate Mandeep Singh may also withdraw his nomination, potentially leading to Raja Iqbal Singh's unopposed election.
BJP's "Triple Engine" Government in Delhi
A likely BJP victory in the mayoral election would result in the BJP controlling the central, state, and municipal levels of government in Delhi—a scenario referred to as a "Triple Engine" government. The last time such a political alignment occurred was in 1998.
BJP Also Ahead for Deputy Mayor Position
The BJP has nominated Jay Bhagwan Yadav for the Deputy Mayor position. Congress has nominated Ariba Khan, but given the party's current standing, she is also expected to withdraw her nomination.
Election Process and Figures
The mayoral and deputy mayoral elections will be held at 2 PM in the Aruna Asaf Ali Hall at the Delhi Municipal Corporation headquarters. BJP councilor Satya Sharma, appointed presiding officer for the fourth consecutive time, will chair the meeting.
The Delhi Municipal Corporation has a total of 262 members, including 250 councilors, with 12 seats currently vacant. The BJP enjoys the support of 135 members, while Congress has 8 and AAP has 119. A majority of 72 votes is required for victory, which the BJP is easily expected to secure.
