The Election Commission of India (ECI) has outlined a comprehensive schedule for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process. Voting across all 70 constituencies is set for February 5, with results to be declared on February 8, and the entire process concluding by February 10.
Emphasis on Voter Participation
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar elaborated on the choice of a mid-week voting day, aiming to maximize voter turnout. “Mid-week polling ensures citizens stay engaged in the democratic process, avoiding the potential drop-off often seen during weekend voting due to travel or leisure plans,” he stated. This approach, first implemented in Maharashtra, reflects the commission’s effort to counter urban apathy and encourage greater civic responsibility.
Delhi’s Updated Voter Base
The final electoral roll published on January 6, 2025, revealed 1,55,24,858 registered voters in Delhi, showcasing a modest increase of 1.09%. Of this number, over 20 lakh are first-time voters, reflecting Delhi’s growing and youthful electorate. The ECI has also introduced enhanced facilities for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, including home voting options and increased accessibility at polling booths.
Stringent Preparations for Fair Elections
To uphold the sanctity of the democratic process, the ECI has deployed advanced technology to monitor the elections. Over 20,000 polling booths in Delhi will be equipped with live monitoring through webcasting to deter malpractice. Additionally, voter awareness campaigns have been intensified to ensure no eligible voter is left behind.
Key Election Milestones
Candidates must file their nominations by January 17, followed by scrutiny on January 18. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is January 20, after which the electoral battle will officially begin. The election’s significance is heightened by the fact that the term of the current 70-member assembly ends on February 23, necessitating timely polls to form the next government.
Parties Gear Up for the Polls
As the elections draw closer, political parties have ramped up their campaigns. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, is striving for a fourth consecutive term, banking on its governance record and promises of development. On the other hand, the BJP has launched an aggressive campaign to wrest control of Delhi, highlighting alleged corruption under AAP’s tenure. Meanwhile, Congress is attempting to regain its lost ground, with a focus on grassroot-level outreach.
Focus on Ethical Voting
The CEC reiterated the importance of ethical voting, urging voters to reject inducements or bribes. To curb unethical practices, the ECI has deployed surveillance teams and increased vigilance, ensuring strict compliance with the Model Code of Conduct. “We will take swift action against any candidate or party violating election norms,” Kumar affirmed.
Maharashtra as a Precedent
Citing the success of mid-week polling in Maharashtra, where elections were conducted peacefully and saw commendable voter turnout, the ECI remains optimistic about replicating this success in Delhi. In Maharashtra, voting across 288 constituencies was held on November 20, and results were announced on November 23. This strategy, the CEC believes, could set a benchmark for future elections in urban regions.
With just weeks left for the polls, Delhi is gearing up for a crucial democratic exercise. The ECI’s focus on transparency, inclusivity, and ethical voting is expected to play a key role in ensuring free and fair elections.
