The political landscape of Delhi witnessed a remarkable shift in the 2025 Assembly elections as the BJP clinched a resounding victory, eerily reminiscent of Arvind Kejriwal’s groundbreaking triumph in 2013. This major win was not just about numbers but a testament to strategies that worked effectively, driven by five key parallels that align with Kejriwal’s past success.
National Leadership and Urban Focus
The influence of national leadership played a crucial role, drawing parallels with Kejriwal's anti-corruption wave back in 2013. Back then, Arvind Kejriwal capitalized on the strong sentiment against corruption, mirroring how Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reputation boosted the BJP’s appeal in 2025. These leaders managed to leverage robust national narratives to sway local voter sentiments.
A pivotal strategy was the focus on urban-centric promises. In 2013, the AAP gained traction through its utility subsidies, resonating with the everyday urban voter. Similarly, the BJP in 2025 pivoted towards infrastructure and development rhetoric, capturing the urban electorate’s imagination with their “Sheeshmahal” infrastructure promises.
Dynamics of Power Shift and Strategic Campaigning
Another striking similarity lay in reversing the anti-incumbency factor. Kejriwal’s 2013 triumph was largely a consequence of Delhi’s disillusionment with the long-off reigning Congress party. Fast forward to 2025, the AAP’s fatigue after three terms set the stage for BJP’s fresh narrative, appealing for change.
A critical move for the BJP was capitalizing on the discord within the AAP. Just as Kejriwal seized the opportunity presented by Congress’s troubles in 2013, the BJP benefited from the controversies surrounding AAP, including the high-profile legal battles faced by figures like Manish Sisodia.
Add to this mix the refinement of polling tactics. Much like the AAP’s strategic booth management in 2013, the BJP honed in on micro-targeting strategies and on-the-ground organization, vital strategies for securing fragmented Assembly seats in the bustling capital.
With the BJP emerging victorious, securing over 55 seats, this electoral success echoes Kejriwal’s broad mandate from 2013, signalling more than just a political victory. It represents a cyclical shift in Delhi’s political dynamics, reshaping alliances and rekindling political fervor in this vibrant city.