A High-Stakes Contest in New Delhi
Congress has named Sandeep Dikshit, son of former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit, as its candidate for the New Delhi seat. Meanwhile, BJP is expected to field Parvesh Sahib Singh, son of ex-CM Sahib Singh Verma.
Parvesh confirmed his preparations to contest, stating, “I have been asked to prepare for the New Delhi constituency.” He criticized the AAP’s governance, citing ten years of misrule. He promised to address local issues, vowing to remain accessible to residents at all times.
Though BJP has yet to officially announce its candidates, senior party leaders indicated Parvesh as the likely choice. He has served two terms as West Delhi MP. His father, Sahib Singh Verma, was Delhi’s fourth CM, serving from 1996 to 1998.
Kejriwal’s Fourth Term Bid
Arvind Kejriwal aims for a fourth consecutive win in New Delhi. He first defeated Sheila Dikshit in 2013 with a landslide victory, marking a shift in Delhi politics. Wins in 2015 and 2020 cemented his position.
After stepping down as CM in September, Kejriwal moved to Feroz Shah Road within the New Delhi constituency. He announced, “I will contest from New Delhi,” reiterating his commitment to the area.
Congress Eyes a Comeback
The Congress hopes to regain relevance by fielding Sandeep Dikshit. The two-time MP plans to leverage his late mother’s reputation to rebuild ties with voters. He expressed gratitude to party leaders, saying, “People fondly remember the Congress government and the development under Sheila Dikshit’s term.”
Dikshit aims to reconnect with party workers and focus on grassroots campaigns. His candidacy brings a personal touch to the race, reminding voters of Sheila Dikshit’s legacy.
BJP’s Local-Focused Campaign
Parvesh Sahib Singh is positioning himself as a problem-solver for issues like water shortages, infrastructure decay, and sanitation woes. His campaign promises a connection to local needs and grievances.
Political analysts see this election as a critical moment for the BJP. The party hopes to use Parvesh’s candidacy to challenge Kejriwal’s dominance.
A Symbolic Battleground
The New Delhi constituency, though small, holds immense symbolic significance. Its voters include a mix of government employees, slum dwellers, traders, and Dalits. With over 100,000 voters, the seat has long been a coveted prize.
According to Tanvir Aeijaz, a political science professor, this race reflects a larger battle for Delhi’s future. “This election gives Sandeep Dikshit a chance to avenge his mother’s defeat, while BJP aims to unseat Kejriwal. It’s a high-stakes fight with anti-incumbency and strong challengers,” Aeijaz noted.
The upcoming elections promise to be a fierce and closely watched contest
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