The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially announced the schedule for the 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly elections, setting the stage for a significant political event that will shape the governance of the National Capital Territory for the next five years.
Election Schedule and Key Dates
According to the ECI's announcement, the Delhi Assembly elections will be conducted in a single phase on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. The counting of votes is scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025. The election process is expected to be completed by February 10, 2025.
- The detailed schedule is as follows:
- Issue of Gazette Notification: January 10, 2025
- Last Date for Nominations: January 17, 2025
- Scrutiny of Nominations: January 18, 2025
- Last Date for Withdrawal of Candidatures: January 20, 2025
- Date of Poll: February 5, 2025
- Counting of Votes: February 8, 2025
Voter Demographics and Preparations
Delhi has a total of 1.55 crore registered voters, including 83.49 lakh male voters, 71.74 lakh female voters, and 25.89 lakh young voters. Notably, there are over 2 lakh first-time voters who will be participating in the electoral process. The ECI has set up 13,033 polling stations across the city, with special provisions for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and women-managed booths to ensure inclusive participation.
Political Landscape and Major Contenders
The upcoming elections are poised to be a three-way contest among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Indian National Congress (INC). AAP, led by Arvind Kejriwal, is aiming for a third consecutive term, while BJP and Congress are strategizing to make significant inroads.
Key issues dominating the campaign narratives include:
- Financial support schemes for women and senior citizens
- Healthcare coverage expansion
- Subsidies for essential services like electricity and LPG cylinders
Each party has released its manifesto outlining promises and schemes aimed at attracting voters. The outcome of this election is expected to significantly influence Delhi's political and developmental trajectory for the next five years.
Election Commission's Measures for Fair Conduct
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar emphasized the ECI's commitment to conducting free and fair elections. Measures include strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), transparent handling of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and ensuring a level playing field for all political parties.
In light of the elections, the ECI has also requested that no Delhi-specific announcements be made in the Union Budget scheduled for February 1, 2025, to maintain electoral neutrality.
Public Engagement and Voter Awareness
The ECI is undertaking extensive voter awareness campaigns to encourage higher voter turnout, especially among first-time and young voters. Initiatives include:
- Educational programs in schools and colleges
- Social media campaigns highlighting the importance of voting
- Collaborations with civil society organizations to reach marginalized communities
As Delhi gears up for the 2025 Assembly elections, the political atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The decisions made by the electorate on February 5 will not only determine the composition of the 70-member Delhi Legislative Assembly but will also set the course for the city's governance and development in the coming years. Citizens are encouraged to participate actively in the democratic process and exercise their right to vote.