Delhi election results: Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) candidate and incumbent Chief Minister of Delhi, Atishi, defeated BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri by 3,521 votes, retaining the Kalkaji assembly constituency in the Delhi elections.
Atishi secured the seat for a second consecutive term, while AAP maintained its hold on the constituency for a third term.
The political battle in a constituency represented by the state’s chief minister always draws significant attention, and Kalkaji was no exception. This year, the contest turned into a high-stakes triangular battle, with each contender bringing experience and political clout to the race.
Atishi, who won the seat in 2020 and later became CM after AAP convenor Kejriwal’s incarceration in a corruption case, faced a tough challenge from Bidhuri, a seasoned politician and former South Delhi MP, as well as Congress leader Alka Lamba, known for her vocal and aggressive campaigning. With three strong contenders, the fight for Kalkaji was one of the most closely watched electoral battles in Delhi.
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Atishi’s response: ‘A moment for resistance’
Atishi acknowledged the election results on Saturday, describing them as a “setback” but reaffirming the party’s commitment to opposing the BJP.
“Firstly, I express my gratitude to the people of Delhi and our dedicated party workers who stood firm. We accept the people’s verdict. However, our fight against BJP’s authoritarianism and intimidation will persist. This may be a setback, but AAP’s struggle for the people of Delhi and the nation is far from over,” she stated while addressing reporters.
She also extended her appreciation to her supporters, saying, “I am thankful to those who placed their trust in me. I also commend my team, which overcame numerous challenges to convey our message to the public. Though I have secured my seat, this is not a moment for celebration—it is a moment for resistance. The fight against BJP’s dominance will continue.”
Atishi’s tenure has been marked by significant development in water and sewage infrastructure, but her opponents maintained that basic civic issues remain unresolved. Bidhuri has accused her of neglecting key concerns such as sanitation, road maintenance, and waterlogging, asserting that only a “double-engine” government can ensure real progress. Meanwhile, Lamba banked on her past performance as an MLA in Chandni Chowk, promising to address fundamental issues such as potable water access, better sanitation, and improved public spaces.
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Controversy over Bidhuri’s remarks
The campaign turned contentious when Bidhuri made remarks about Atishi’s decision to drop the surname ‘Marlena.’
He stated, “Marlena has now become Singh… She has changed her father. She was Marlena before, but now she is Singh.”
Reacting to these remarks, Atishi broke down during a press conference, condemning the level of political discourse. She accused the saffron party of dragging a bedridden man—who has no connection to politics—into their attacks.
Key issues in Kalkaji
Despite being a bustling hub, Kalkaji grapples with broken roads, inadequate sanitation, and illegal encroachments. Residents, including those from urban villages, middle-class colonies, and slum clusters, express frustration with leaders who, they claim, neglect their needs once elections are over.
