By – Prakarsh kastwar
New Delhi: Voting for the 2025 Delhi Assembly Elections is underway across 13,766 polling stations, with polling scheduled from 7 AM to 6 PM. By 1 PM, the voter turnout had reached 33.31%, with a tight contest expected between key political parties.
Polling Percentage by Region as of 1 PM:
- Central Delhi: 29.74%
- East Delhi: 33.66%
- New Delhi: 29.89%
- North Delhi: 32.44%
- North-East Delhi: 39.51%
- North-West Delhi: 33.17%
- Shahdara: 35.81%
- South Delhi: 32.67%
- South-East Delhi: 32.27%
- South-West Delhi: 35.44%
- West Delhi: 30.87%
AAP Raises Concerns Over Polling Agent Restrictions
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha alleged that polling agents and relievers in the New Delhi constituency were being denied entry at several booths. He claimed that security personnel stationed outside polling stations were preventing relievers from entering, which could potentially impact transparency in the voting process.
“We have received reports that at nearly half of the polling booths in New Delhi constituency, our relievers are not being allowed inside. If a reliever cannot enter and the polling agent has to step out, how can we verify the voting process, ensure EVMs are functioning properly, and prevent fraudulent voting? We have raised this issue with the District Election Officer and have submitted a written complaint to the Chief Election Commissioner of India and the Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi,” said Chadha.
Election Commission Dismisses Claims of Polling Irregularities
The District Election Office of North Delhi responded to a viral video alleging that a police officer at a polling station in Sainik Vihar was influencing voters in favor of a particular political party. The Election Commission stated that upon investigation by the Flying Squad Team (FST), it was found that voters were freely casting their votes without any coercion. The video was deemed to be misleading and baseless.
Kailash Gahlot Votes with Family, Expresses Confidence in BJP
BJP candidate from Bijwasan, Kailash Gahlot, cast his vote along with his family. Speaking to reporters, he expressed confidence in the party’s victory, stating, “People of Delhi are ready for a change. The Aam Aadmi Party and its leadership have deviated from their ethics and principles. Their only aim is to stay in power at any cost. I am confident that people will vote for a developed Delhi.”
Contrasting Scenes at Polling Booths: Heavy Crowd in Tughlakabad, Sparse Turnout in Badarpur
While polling stations in Tughlakabad witnessed large crowds of voters eager to cast their votes, polling stations in Badarpur remained relatively empty. Election officials have urged citizens to exercise their democratic rights and participate in the elections actively.
AAP Accuses BJP of Cash Distribution in Jangpura
AAP accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of bribing voters in the Jangpura constituency. The party shared a post on social media alleging that BJP workers were taking voters inside a building and distributing money in exchange for votes. AAP demanded immediate action from the Election Commission, with senior leader Manish Sisodia stating, “BJP candidates are openly distributing money to buy votes. We demand strict action against them.”
Selfie Points Set Up for Voters in Delhi Cantt
To encourage voter participation, the Election Commission has set up selfie points at various polling stations, including Delhi Cantonment. Voters are being urged to click pictures and share them on social media to inspire others to vote.
Saurabh Bharadwaj Alleges Voter Suppression by Delhi Police
AAP candidate from Greater Kailash, Saurabh Bharadwaj, alleged that Delhi Police personnel were preventing voters from entering polling booths in Chirag Delhi. “The police are attempting to suppress votes. We have filed a complaint with the Election Commission,” he claimed.
Prominent Leaders Cast Their Votes
AAP leader Somnath Bharti exercised his franchise along with his family and emphasized the importance of voting for progress in education and healthcare. “People are voting for honest governance, development, and integrity. The people of Delhi want Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership,” he said.
Former President Ram Nath Kovind also cast his vote and urged all citizens to participate in the democratic process. “Voting is both a constitutional duty and a moral responsibility. Through our votes, we elect our representatives and shape the future of our nation,” he stated.
Conclusion
The Delhi Assembly Elections 2025 have so far seen a steady voter turnout, with allegations and counter-allegations between political parties adding to the intensity of the contest. With voting set to continue until 6 PM, all eyes are on the final turnout and any emerging developments. Stay tuned for further updates on the elections.