After a disappointing performance in the Delhi Assembly elections, Congress is looking to rebuild its presence in the capital. Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav has expressed determination to strengthen the party and reconnect with the people.
Speaking to the media agency, Yadav acknowledged the challenges posed by the BJP’s landslide victory and AAP securing the second position. Congress struggled to make a significant impact but managed to improve its vote share.
He noted that Congress fought the elections with full effort and saw a two per cent increase in vote share. However, many voters, especially from minority and Dalit communities, shifted their support to AAP, viewing it as a stronger alternative to prevent the BJP’s dominance.
Despite this, Yadav remained optimistic about Congress’s future in Delhi. He emphasised that the party would intensify its efforts to win back public trust. He reaffirmed that Congress would work hard to strengthen its connection with the people and prove itself as a viable political option.
Congress’s poor performance was reflected in the fact that out of 699 candidates contesting in Delhi, 555 lost their deposits. Congress candidates managed to retain their deposits in only three constituencies.
Yadav admitted that the party had expected greater support from minority and Dalit voters but understood that their strategic voting went in favour of AAP. However, he expressed confidence that this trend would shift over time, leading to better results for Congress in future elections.
Shiv Sena had earlier criticised Congress’s decision to contest in Delhi, suggesting that it only benefited AAP by splitting votes.
Yadav dismissed this argument, stating that Congress had every right to participate in the election. He believed that those who questioned Congress’s presence in the race did not fully understand the political situation in Delhi.
Yadav also addressed criticism from AAP, which accused Congress of focusing solely on attacking them during the campaign.
He clarified that Congress’s campaign targeted AAP because they were the ruling party in Delhi and the Municipal Corporation. He insisted that it was necessary to hold them accountable for issues such as inflation and unemployment.
Responding to comments from senior Congress leader Tariq Anwar, who suggested that changes were needed within the party’s organisational structure, Yadav maintained that Congress stood by its decision to contest independently.
He reiterated that the party would continue to fight elections with full commitment.
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