Delhi exit polls: Modi's magic in Delhi, BJP can claim power after 27 years

The latest exit polls suggest that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could make a historic return to power in Delhi after 27 years. If these projections hold true, it would mark a significant blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which had won back-to-back victories in the 2015 and 2020 Delhi Assembly elections under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal. Meanwhile, the Congress, which once ruled Delhi during Sheila Dikshit's golden era, is expected to secure only 1-2 seats, as per pollsters' predictions.

Exit poll projections Favor BJP

While exit polls are often subject to errors, the numbers indicate a strong lead for the BJP. P-Mark's survey projects BJP securing 39-49 seats, while AAP is expected to win between 21-31 seats. Similarly, the Times Now-ETG poll predicts BJP winning 39-45 seats and AAP securing 22-31 seats. Among the pollsters, People's Pulse has given the highest estimate to BJP, projecting 51-60 seats, with AAP expected to win only 10-19 seats. In contrast, Matrize predicts a close contest, giving BJP 35-40 seats and AAP 32-37 seats. To form the government in Delhi, a party needs at least 36 seats.

BJP likely to cross the majority mark

The average of four exit polls suggests that BJP may secure 42 seats, comfortably crossing the majority mark, while AAP could be restricted to just 25 seats. As the exit polls indicate a favorable outcome for BJP, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva remarked, "AAP da (disaster) is going away"—a phrase coined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to describe AAP’s declining fortunes.

AAP remains hopeful despite projections

Despite these predictions, AAP leaders remain optimistic. Party leader Reena Gupta dismissed the exit poll numbers, asserting that AAP is set for a "historic victory." She stated, "If you look at any past exit poll—2013, 2015, or 2020—AAP has always been underestimated. The actual results have always been much better for us. This time too, we will achieve a historic win."

With the final election results yet to be announced, all eyes are on the official counting day to see whether the BJP’s projected comeback materializes or if AAP defies the odds once again.