Delhi Assembly Elections / Emphasis on DM factor in Delhi, Congress is desperate to open its account after 10 years

Delhi Assembly Elections: Congress, which is trying to gain a foothold in Delhi politics once again, is making its election strategy by keeping the Dalit-Muslim (DM) factor at the center. However, its path seems to be getting difficult due to the allies of the India Alliance. Especially Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee have given a blow to the Congress strategy by announcing support to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

The power of the DM factor in 2013

In the 2013 elections, despite the defeat of the then Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Congress had won eight seats. These included seats like Sultanpur Mazra, Gandhi Nagar, Ballimaran and Chandni Chowk. The credit for the victory of Congress on these seats was mainly given to the Dalit-Muslim vote bank. This time too, Congress is relying on these communities so that it can register its presence in the Delhi Assembly.

Congress's focus on Dalit and Muslim dominated seats

There are 12 reserved and about 8 Muslim dominated seats in Delhi. Dalit and Muslim voters have a decisive influence on these 20 seats. From 1998 to 2013, Congress performed well on these seats. The party believes that by winning these seats, it can pave its way to return to power.

Congress' strategy and expectations

Congress hopes that its traditional Dalit and Muslim vote bank will return this time. For this, the party has fielded Sandeep Dixit against former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Alka Lamba against CM candidate Atishi. Congress leader Pawan Khera says that when Congress makes a comeback, it also brings new voters with it.

Difficulties are not less

However, Congress's path is not easy.

India alliance's challenge: Congress is contesting the elections alone in Delhi to save the alliance. The central leadership not actively participating in the electoral process can also weaken the party's position.

Triangular contest: Making the contest between AAP and BJP triangular is a big challenge for Congress.

Support of SP and TMC: SP and TMC supporting AAP can have a big impact on the strategy of Congress. This decision can prove to be harmful for Congress, especially among UP and Bengali voters.

Sandeep Dixit's displeasure

Congress leader Sandeep Dixit expressed displeasure over SP supporting AAP. He took a dig at Akhilesh Yadav and said that he has forgotten the insult of his father Mulayam Singh Yadav. He said, "If a son can forget the insult of his father, then he can support anyone."

Conclusion

For Congress, Delhi Assembly Elections 2025 are no less than an ordeal. While the party is trying to regain its lost support base through the DM factor, the moves of allies within the India Alliance are increasing its difficulties. Despite these challenges, Congress hopes that its strategy will give it a place again in Delhi politics.