Exit Polls Predict BJP's Return to Power in Delhi, Political Parties Respond with Mixed Reactions

New Delhi – As exit polls indicate a potential return of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to power in the national capital after 25 years, political parties have offered contrasting reactions to the projections. While the BJP has embraced the forecasts as validation of its electoral strategy, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has dismissed them as speculative. Meanwhile, the Congress has expressed confidence in exceeding poll predictions, asserting that voters are seeking change.

With most exit polls suggesting a decisive setback for AAP, BJP leaders have expressed optimism, asserting that the electorate has voted for a transformation in Delhi’s governance. The Congress, on the other hand, believes its seat tally will surpass expectations as voters, disillusioned with AAP, look for an alternative.

BJP Confident of Victory

The BJP has welcomed the exit poll projections, expressing confidence in securing a majority. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari remarked that the forecasts are not only accurate but that the final results will likely be even more favorable. “BJP is coming to power in Delhi. This is our homecoming. I extend my gratitude to the people of Delhi,” he said.

Minister of State for Transport Harsh Malhotra echoed this sentiment, telling CNN-News18 that voters have decisively chosen change. “The people of Delhi have voted for good governance. BJP will form the government with an absolute majority,” he asserted.

BJP’s candidate from the New Delhi Assembly seat, Parvesh Verma, reinforced the party’s confidence, stating, “It is certain that the lotus will bloom on February 8. We are committed to providing clean governance, a cleaner Yamuna, and employment opportunities. Arvind Kejriwal knows he is losing.”

Similarly, Satish Upadhyay, BJP leader from Malviya Nagar, stated, “AAP’s narrative is collapsing, and BJP is set for a resounding victory. AAP’s strategy has always been centered on blame games and misinformation.”

AAP Rejects Exit Poll Findings

Rejecting the exit poll projections, AAP leaders have asserted that previous predictions have consistently underestimated the party’s actual vote share. Saurabh Bharadwaj, AAP candidate from Greater Kailash, expressed confidence in the party’s electoral prospects, citing past experiences.

“We have contested four Assembly elections in Delhi. In 2013 and 2015, exit polls suggested our defeat, and in 2020, they predicted fewer seats than we ultimately secured. This time as well, the projections do not reflect reality,” Bharadwaj stated.

He further accused the BJP of suppressing dissent. “The BJP has a history of silencing the voices of common people. AAP has consistently secured a higher vote share than exit polls have suggested, and we are confident of repeating this trend,” he added.

Congress Optimistic About Performance

Despite exit polls predicting a limited comeback for Congress in Delhi, party leaders remain hopeful of surpassing expectations. Sandeep Dikshit, Congress candidate from New Delhi, stated that while he acknowledges the exit polls, the final outcome on February 8 could defy projections.

“People of Delhi are frustrated with AAP and want change. I wouldn’t be surprised if AAP underperforms,” Dikshit told CNN-News18.

Delhi Witnesses High-Stakes Electoral Battle

The exit poll findings follow voting across 70 Assembly constituencies in Delhi on Wednesday, with polling conducted from 7 AM to 6 PM. The national capital witnessed a three-way electoral contest among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress.

While AAP is vying for a third consecutive term, the BJP is seeking to reclaim power after more than two decades. The Congress, which once held a stronghold in Delhi, is aiming for a political revival.

With the final results set to be declared on February 8, the electoral battle for Delhi remains closely watched, with the outcome likely to have broader political ramifications.