New Delhi: The political scenario in Delhi has turned tense as the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), allies in the INDIA alliance during the Lok Sabha elections, are now facing off in Delhi Assembly elections. The rivalry escalated after Congress leader Ajay Maken referred to AAP chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as “anti-national” and “Farjiwal.”
Tensions between the two parties have grown significantly, creating visible cracks in the INDIA alliance. Most member parties of the alliance have openly supported AAP, leaving Congress isolated. This growing divide prompted Congress to rethink its strategy, with many leaders pushing for an aggressive approach against Kejriwal and AAP. A final decision on this shift is expected from Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi.
What fuelled dispute between AAP and Congress?
Despite initially presenting a united front during the Lok Sabha elections, AAP and Congress are now openly hostile. Congress leadership initially attempted to frame the Delhi elections as a battle between Delhi Congress and AAP, but Kejriwal’s relentless attacks have forced the party to reconsider its stance.
Ajay Maken’s remarks further deepened the divide, pushing Congress into a defensive position. Reports suggest that Congress strategists now favor an “all-out attack” strategy against Kejriwal, mirroring the aggressive tactics used by AAP.
However, Congress recently cancelled its last-minute press conference to be addressed by Ajay Maken in would have reportedly verbally attacked Kejriwal. According to party sources, some members of Gandhi family were not comfortable with this direct attack on Kejriwal.
While Congress awaits approval from Kharge and Gandhi, its social media team has already taken aim at Kejriwal, blaming him for Delhi’s inflation rather than focusing on the BJP.
Results of Delhi polls on February 8
Voting for the Delhi Assembly elections is scheduled for February 5, with results to be announced on February 8.
AAP is determined to retain power, while Congress and BJP are vying to regain control of the capital.
