As Delhi Prepares to Vote, Political Leaders Share Concerns and Predictions
Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir), February 3: With just a day left before Delhi heads to the polls, political leaders are weighing in on the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) chances and potential election concerns. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that AAP could once again sweep the elections, while Delhi CM and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal has raised concerns about possible vote tampering by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Omar Abdullah: AAP Could Wipe Out Other Parties
Speaking to the media, Omar Abdullah reflected on AAP’s stronghold in Delhi, suggesting that history could repeat itself.
“There is a probability that AAP, like in the last elections, might wipe out all the other parties in Delhi. People have not even voted yet, let the results come, and then we will start the analysis…” Abdullah said.
AAP, which secured a landslide victory in 2020 by winning 62 out of 70 seats, is looking to retain power despite a strong campaign by the BJP.
Kejriwal Raises Alarm Over Possible Voting Machine Tampering
Meanwhile, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal alleged that BJP could manipulate 10% of the votes through electronic voting machines (EVMs).
In a video message, Kejriwal urged voters to turn out in large numbers to counter any alleged tampering.
“I have come to know through sources that they (BJP) can cause discrepancies in 10% of votes through machines. Vote in such large numbers that every vote goes to ‘Jhaadu’ (AAP’s symbol). So if we have a 15% lead, we will win by 5%. Give us a lead of more than 10% everywhere. This is the only way to tackle machines—by voting in large numbers.”
AAP’s Precautionary Measures: New Website to Track Votes
Taking lessons from alleged voting irregularities in Maharashtra and Haryana, Kejriwal announced that AAP has developed a website to ensure transparency and monitor polling booth data.
“We have developed a website as a precautionary measure. Learning from the Maharashtra and Haryana elections, we have decided that on the night of February 5, we will upload six details from every polling booth so that machines cannot be tampered with. If any discrepancy occurs on counting day, you can match the numbers,” he added.
Delhi Votes on February 5, Results on February 8
With AAP aiming for a third consecutive term, BJP looking to break its dominance, and Congress trying to regain lost ground, Delhi’s elections remain highly contested. The voting will take place on February 5, with the results to be declared on February 8.
With concerns over voter manipulation and speculations of a clean sweep for AAP, all eyes are now on Delhi as it prepares to decide its next government.