“Guest Column | Delhi Elections: The New Politics Myth”

The Delhi elections have highlighted the challenges of AAP’s so-called “new politics.” Born from the anti-corruption movement, AAP promised transparency and governance reform but failed to deliver real change. Their strategy relied heavily on freebies like subsidized electricity, water, and transport.

While initially popular, these subsidies strained Delhi’s finances, pushing the debt-to-GSDP ratio to an unsustainable 28%. Unemployment remained high at 8.9%, and key sectors like education and healthcare saw limited progress.

Despite branding itself as an alternative to traditional politics, AAP fell into the same traps—nepotism, media manipulation, and governance failures. Their attempt to win over the middle class failed, while the Modi government countered with tax cuts and economic incentives, strengthening its voter base.

The election results also raise concerns about AAP’s future in Punjab. If they don’t move beyond populism and deliver real results, they risk losing credibility. The Delhi elections serve as a reminder that governance cannot survive on rhetoric alone—long-term reforms are essential for lasting political success.

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