AAP bigger challenge to Congress than BJP in Delhi

To achieve some durable stature in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi should hold one or two rallies in Delhi, and Sonia Gandhi should address at least one meeting.

- AJIT MAINDOLA

The fate of the Congress party now hangs on the outcome of Delhi elections. If the party wins, it would be a historic achievement. However, even if Congress doesn’t win, it is vital for its future that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) loses because if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wins, it will still be a big relief to Congress, as it would preserve Congress’s stature in the opposition.

On the other hand, if AAP wins a fourth consecutive term with a majority in Delhi, party convenor Arvind Kejriwal will solidify his position as a key figure in national politics. The constituent parties of the I.N.D.I. Alliance would not take long to rally behind him as a potential leader.

There might be a few deciding factors as to who might be the new leader from North India. The opposition is set to gain a leader who will be North Indian, well-educated, fluent in Hindi, and, most importantly, deeply connected with the public. This leader, likely Arvind Kejriwal, with his image resonating as that of the common man, unlike Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, who have been in politics for over two decades, will have proven to have built a rapport with the Delhi people which the two Gandhi siblings have not been able to. If the Gandhi family understands the current situation, they must adjust their political moves.

Congress strategists can repeat their last tactic similar to 2013, where they won 7-8 seats while preventing other parties from securing a majority. This could serve as a lifeline, offering the party a fresh chance.