Jangpura Assembly constituency: A study in contrasts

Delhi Polls: Jangpura, A prominent constituency in South East Delhi, encapsulates the duali ties of urban India, where affluence and poverty coexist. Known for its strategic location—bordered by Mathura Road, the Defence Colony Flyover, Barapulla Nullah, and the Ring Railway line—Jangpura offers connectivity to key parts of the city. The constituency includes an eclectic mix of areas, such as Jangpura A and B, Jangpura Extension, and Pant Nagar. Its socio-eco nomic diversity makes it a vibrant urban hub but also underscores deep-seated issues demanding urgent attention.

A blend of demographics

Jangpura’s demographic composition is as varied as its geography. From posh residential colonies to densely populated JJ (Jhuggi-Jhopri) clusters, the area represents a broad spectrum of urban life. Affluent residents in areas like Jangpura Extension enjoy relative comfort, while those living in JJ clusters struggle with basic amenities. This stark disparity highlights challenges in urban governance and shapes the constituency’s political landscape.

For over a decade, the constituency has been a stronghold of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Praveen Kumar, the incumbent MLA, has been at the helm since 2013. While his tenure has seen certain improvements, including consistent electricity supply and free water services, many residents feel that promises of infrastructure development and governance remain unfulfilled.

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Public toilets and parking woes

Shopkeepers in Jangpura Extension have raised concerns about the lack of public toilets and parking facilities. Mukesh Gupta, an electronics shop owner, lamented, “The market toilet has turned into ruins as it has been closed for more than half a decade. We have to face several hardships because of this. After several complaints to the concerned authorities, no action was taken.” Gupta also highlighted the parking crisis, saying, “There is no parking space available near the market, which leads to individuals parking their vehicles on the roads, causing traffic congestion in the area.”

Sanitation and waste management

Sanitation remains a critical issue. Kundan Prakash, who owns a paan shop, pointed out, “Apart from the public toilet issue, there is a sanitation problem in the locality. Sewer lines are clogged, leading to drain water overflowing onto market streets, which affects business.” Another business owner, who wished to remain anonymous, added, “Despite promises of cleanliness in the market, heaps of garbage are clearly visible on the road. This should not happen in such a reputed market.”

Broken roads and infrastructure

The state of roads is another major concern. Residents have repeatedly complained about broken roads, which impede mobility and pose safety risks.

Anushree Sharma, a resident, noted, “Despite the road issues, the development work done by the AAP in the constituency is commendable. There are no power cuts in recent years, and we don’t have to pay water bills. However, the MLA’s lack of interaction with residents is disappointing.”

Voices from the JJ clusters

The JJ clusters opposite the Lajpat Railway Colony house over 5,000 families, predominantly from southern India. These areas are characterised by narrow lanes, stagnant water, and a lack of basic amenities such as proper sewage systems, clean drinking water, and waste disposal facilities. The challenges faced by these residents highlight the stark inequality within the constituency.

CK Malali, a long-time resident of the JJ clusters, expressed his frustration: “The area’s conditions have worsened over the years, with no action from elected representatives. These political leaders only consider us as votes, not human beings.”

However, there are signs of progress. Harry, another resident, praised AAP’s initiatives, saying, “The construction of toilets in the area has resolved a long standing issue. Additionally, free electricity and water have helped uplift the people of the JJ clusters.”

The accessibility issue

A recurring grievance among residents is the inaccessibility of MLA Praveen Kumar. Rajendra Singh, President of the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) of Jangpura Extension, shared his frustration: “Multiple attempts to contact the MLA have been unsuccessful. His Personal Assistant (PA) often tells us that he is unavailable. While Kumar has delivered on some promises, like getting a borewell installed for the park, his lack of engagement with residents is a significant drawback.”

Singh reminisced about the previous MLA, Tarvinder Singh Marwah, saying, “Apart from development works, residents need an MLA who is available and accessible 24/7. We will vote for someone who stands by us in good and bad times.”

This sentiment was echoed by Anushree Sharma, who recounted an incident where Kumar failed to attend a community event despite being invited. “We went to his office to invite him for a Jagran last year, but he was not available. His staff told us to hand over the invitation to them, but he didn’t show up. The MLA needs to interact with residents more often,” she said.

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Political dynamics ahead of elections

As the elections approach, the political scenario in Jangpura is marked by a mix of optimism and scepticism. The stage is set for a high-stakes battle in the constituency.

AAP has fielded Manish Sisodia, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, as its candidate. While Sisodia’s track record in education and infrastructure gives hope to some residents, his outsider status could be a disadvantage.

The growing sense of anti-incumbency against AAP adds to the uncertainty. Although the party has been in power since 2015, many voters feel that its promises have not translated into meaningful change. While freebies like free water and electricity are appreciated, residents are demanding more substantial improvements in infrastructure and governance.

The BJP has fielded Tarwinder Singh Marwah, a three-time MLA from Jangpura while the Congress party has fielded veteran leader and former Delhi Mayor Farhad Suri against the stalwarts.

In the 2020 elections, Praveen Kumar secured a decisive victory with 50.88% of the vote share, defeating his BJP rival by a margin of over 16,000 votes. However, the BJP’s growing influence in the constituency, coupled with Congress’s decline, underscores a shifting political landscape.

The road ahead

Jangpura’s electorate, comprising 1,42,634 registered voters, reflects the constituency’s diversity. With 77,244 male voters, 65,387 female voters, and three third-gender voters, the demographic mix includes both affluent and marginalised communities. This diversity will play a crucial role in shaping the election outcome.

Residents are clear about their priorities. They seek a representative who not only delivers on promises but also engages with the community.

As CK Malali put it, “We are tired of being treated as votes. We need a leader who sees us as human beings.”

The dissatisfaction with the current MLA, coupled with the challenges of poor infrastructure and inaccessible leadership, presents an opportunity for change.

A glimmer of hope?

While the future of Jangpura hangs in the balance, the upcoming elections offer a chance for residents to push for meaningful change. Manish Sisodia’s candidature has sparked both hope and debate. On one hand, his achievements in the Delhi government’s education sector are commendable. On the other hand, his lack of a personal connection to Jangpura serves as a major roadblock for the AAP.

The election outcome will hinge on whether the residents prioritise past performance or future promises. For many, the choice will boil down to a simple question: who can best address the issues that have plagued their lives for years?

In conclusion, Jangpura’s journey reflects urban India’s complexities. It is a constituency of contrasts—affluence and poverty, progress and stagnation, hope and frustration. As the elections draw near, its residents are preparing to make their voices heard. The demands are clear: improved infrastructure, accessible leadership, and tangible progress.

The upcoming polls will be a defining moment for Jangpura. Whether it marks the beginning of a new chapter or a continuation of the status quo, one thing is certain: the residents are determined to hold their leaders accountable and ensure their votes lead to real change.