NEW DELHI: With the Delhi Assembly elections around the corner, The New Indian took a closer look at the sentiments of voters in Kotla, part of the Kasturba Nagar constituency, a vital South Delhi area. Residents voiced their concerns on a wide range of issues—from poor infrastructure and water quality to the rising cost of living—shaping their choices as they prepare to head to the polls.
Shilpa, a local resident, painted a grim picture of life in Kotla, especially when it comes to basic civic amenities.
“We get 200 units of free electricity, but the supply is inconsistent. Water overflows, floods houses, and damages walls,” she shared. Sewage problems and poor drinking water quality are also frequent complaints among her neighbors.
Among the Muslim community, disillusionment runs deep. One voter, frustrated with the current political landscape, voiced their dissatisfaction with both the AAP and BJP.
“People are becoming poorer under its rule. The BJP should be rooted out of India. They support Adani and Ambani while the rich get richer. Among the three candidates, Abhishek Dutt is the best choice,” they said.
As the political dynamics shift, Kasturba Nagar finds itself at the heart of a triangular contest. Neeraj Basoya, previously with Congress, is now running on a BJP ticket, while Congress has once again fielded Abhishek Dutt—despite his losses in the 2015 and 2020 elections.
The AAP, on the other hand, has replaced its three-time winning candidate Madan Lal with Ramesh Pehlwan. This change in leadership has sparked both hope and skepticism among the electorate.
In Kotla Market, the frustration is palpable as inflation and rising rents continue to dominate conversations.
One female shopper remarked, “They make a lot of promises. In Punjab, too, they promised financial aid for women, but nothing ever materializes.”
While acknowledging the AAP’s free water and electricity schemes, she expressed disappointment in the unfulfilled promises, signaling a sense of voter fatigue with politicians’ assurances.
The Kasturba Nagar constituency encompasses key areas like Lajpat Nagar, Kotla, South Extension, Defence Colony, and Sarai Kale Khan, which is a major transport hub. Despite its prominence, many local residents feel their needs are not being fully addressed.
Waterlogging during rains, dilapidated drainage systems, and persistent traffic congestion were the top grievances aired by residents. Some acknowledged development, but others felt it was insufficient to meet the growing demands of this rapidly urbanizing area.
Employment also emerged as a critical issue, with locals like Hemant, a plumber, calling for jobs rather than political freebies. “We need jobs, not their free schemes like ₹2,100 and ₹2,500 for women. Nothing has improved in the last few years. These schemes are worsening the problem,” he added.
On the flip side, there were those like Netra, a momo seller, who expressed satisfaction with the AAP government’s policies. “I have no complaints. AAP is doing a good job, and Kejriwal should continue as CM,” she said, showing how AAP continues to retain support among some sections of the local population.
The younger generation, too, is playing a key role in shaping the electoral battle. Many are rallying behind Congress candidate Abhishek Dutt, citing his education and potential to bring about meaningful change. Govind Kumar, a young voter from Kasturba Nagar, was blunt about his dissatisfaction with the current state government.
“We have seen Kejriwal for more than 10 years. Roads are small and waterlogged. Change is important, so BJP should come. Where BJP is ruling, everything is better,” he stated.
As the election campaign intensifies, all three major parties—AAP, BJP, and Congress—are pulling out all stops. Mega roadshows and high-profile rallies featuring top leaders have become a regular feature in the run-up to the vote. With a growing divide between those seeking change and those advocating for continuity, the upcoming Delhi Assembly election in Kasturba Nagar promises to be a fiercely contested one.
As the voters of Kotla and surrounding areas head to the polls, it remains to be seen which party will manage to address their long-standing issues and win their confidence in this pivotal election.