AAP Shuns Mayoral Race, Cites BJP's Governance Lapse

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced its decision not to contest the upcoming mayoral elections for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), a significant move made public a day before the nominations close.

In the MCD's 250-member house, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) enjoys a comfortable majority with 123 councillors. AAP, holding 101 seats, is joined by councillors from the Indraprastha Vikas Party, Congress, and independents. Delhi AAP president Saurabh Bharadwaj stated that the decision to abstain aims to let BJP govern and be accountable for its governance shortfalls.

Bharadwaj argued that despite BJP's power at both central and local levels, no significant changes have been observed in Delhi's administration. Elections for the roles of mayor, deputy mayor, and three standing committee members are scheduled for April 29. The nomination process closes on April 23 at 5 pm.

(With inputs from agencies.)