BJP Dominates Delhi MCD Bypolls, Secures 7 of 12 Wards

The results of the recent bypolls held in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) revealed a decisive victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which won seven out of the twelve contested wards. The elections took place on November 30, 2023, with voter turnout recorded at a modest 38.51%, significantly lower than the 50.47% turnout in the 2022 MCD elections. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) secured three wards, while the Congress achieved a breakthrough by winning one ward.

BJP’s Strong Performance

The BJP’s success was marked by notable victories in key areas. Among the winning candidates, Rekha Rani triumphed in Ward 128, Dichaon Kalan, and Sarla Chaudhary successfully claimed the Vinod Nagar seat (Ward 198). Additional wins included Veena Asija in Ashok Vihar (Ward 65), Suman Kumar Gupta in Chandni Chowk (Ward 74), and Anita Jain in Shalimar Bagh (Ward 56). Anjum Mandal also emerged victorious from Greater Kailash, while Manisha Devi completed the BJP’s tally with a win from the Dwarka B seat.

The BJP’s performance reinforces its position within the MCD, where it previously held a substantial majority. Before the bypolls, the council comprised 115 BJP councillors, alongside 99 from AAP, 15 from the Indraprastha Vikas Party, and 8 from Congress.

AAP and Congress Make Gains

The Aam Aadmi Party secured its three victories with Ram Swaroop Kanojia winning in Dakshin Puri, Anil in Mundka, and Rajan Arora in the Naraina ward. While the AAP did not perform as strongly as the BJP, these wins maintain its presence in the MCD.

The Congress party also celebrated a significant achievement, with Suresh Chaudhary winning from Sangam Vihar-A (Ward 163A). Additionally, the All India Forward Bloc’s Mohammad Imran secured the Chandni Mahal seat, indicating a broader representation in the municipal landscape.

The low voter turnout has raised discussions about civic engagement in the region. With only 38.51% of eligible voters participating, the turnout reflects a marked decline in interest compared to previous elections.

To ensure a secure voting environment, nearly 1,800 personnel from the Delhi Police and 10 paramilitary companies were deployed across various counting centres. Locations included Kanjhawala, Pitampura, Bharat Nagar, Civil Lines, Rouse Avenue, Dwarka, Najafgarh, Gole Market, Pushp Vihar, and Mandawali. Approximately 700 staff members facilitated the counting process, which contributed to the efficient declaration of results.

As the new council members take their positions, the dynamics within the MCD may shift, particularly with the BJP strengthening its hold. The implications of these bypoll results will likely influence future political strategies and voter engagement initiatives in Delhi.