AAP Bows Out of MCD Mayor Race, Atishi Accuses BJP of Poaching Councillors

New Delhi: In a significant political development ahead of the Delhi Municipal Corporation (MCD) mayoral elections, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced that it will not contest for the post of mayor this time. The decision was conveyed by senior AAP leader and Delhi cabinet minister Atishi, who launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of attempting to manipulate the democratic process.

Allegations of Poaching and Pressure Tactics

Atishi alleged that the BJP has been trying to lure AAP councillors over the past two and a half years through coercion and monetary inducements. “The BJP has consistently tried to pressure and entice our councillors to switch sides. AAP does not believe in such unethical politics. We don’t buy or break elected representatives,” she stated.

She further said that despite winning a majority in the previous MCD elections, the BJP used all means—money, pressure, and manipulation—to increase its influence after the results.

“Time to Work for Delhi’s People,” Says Atishi

Challenging the BJP, Atishi said, “Now that they have the numbers, the BJP should focus on delivering results for the people of Delhi. AAP will play the role of a constructive opposition and hold them accountable for their promises.”

AAP Recalls Majority Win Amid Challenges

Atishi reminded that even after the reunification of the MCD—which reduced the number of wards from 272 to 250—and delays in conducting elections, AAP secured a majority. “Despite all the hurdles placed by the BJP, we did not resort to horse-trading,” she emphasized.

Saurabh Bharadwaj Slams “Triple Engine Government”

AAP Delhi president Saurabh Bharadwaj also took a dig at the BJP, saying, “The BJP now controls the Lieutenant Governor’s office, the Central Government, and the Municipal Corporation. They have a triple-engine government in Delhi. There are no excuses left—now it's time to deliver.”

BJP Hits Back: “Drama of Sacrifice, Alliance in the Works?”

Reacting to AAP’s decision, BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor said, “AAP knows it has lost its majority in the MCD and is trying to avoid blame for its administrative failures by putting on a show of sacrifice. This could be a signal that they’re preparing for an alliance with the Congress.”