New Delhi: As the Delhi Assembly elections draw closer, political parties are strategically courting key voter blocs, particularly the Sikh Punjabi and Purvanchali communities. These groups hold significant electoral influence, making them crucial to the fortunes of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress.
Over the years, the political landscape of Delhi has shifted, with the influence of Purvanchali voters—migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar—growing steadily. Currently, they make up around 30% of the city’s electorate and play a decisive role in all Assembly constituencies. Meanwhile, the Punjabi Sikh community, comprising about 20% of Delhi’s voters, remains influential, particularly in West, North, and East Delhi.
Major political parties have strategically positioned leaders from these groups. The BJP has North East Delhi MP Manoj Tiwari, a popular Bhojpuri singer, as a prominent Purvanchali face. Additionally, it has fielded Sikh leader Arvinder Singh Lovely from Gandhi Nagar and Jat leader Kailash Gahlot from Bijwasan. Similarly, AAP and Congress have ensured representation for both Purvanchali and Sikh communities.
A BJP insider highlighted the party’s efforts for the Sikh community, citing initiatives such as tax exemptions on Langar, the Kartarpur Corridor inauguration, and the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
Delhi’s voters remain divided in their choices, with economic and developmental issues at the forefront of their concerns. Priyanka Singh, a resident originally from Sasaram, Bihar, expressed disappointment with all three parties, saying, “AAP, BJP, and Congress promised to regularise unauthorised colonies, but none have done it. We need proper roads and sewage systems.”
Ashutosh, a vegetable vendor, credited the BJP for its welfare schemes. “We get rations and loans through the PM SVANidhi scheme, which makes running our business easier. Also, Manoj Tiwari understands our needs, so we will support BJP.”
College student Parneet Kaur noted, “Overall, Sikh voters favour the BJP because of their focus on national security.” However, concerns over unemployment loom large. Taranjit Singh, a shop-owner lamented, “Our children are moving abroad for jobs.”
Political analyst Avneet Kaur Bhatia said, “Traditionally, Sikh Punjabi voters have leaned towards the BJP, but the break-up of the Akali Dal-BJP alliance might shift some Akali Sikh votes elsewhere. Additionally, Sikhs with roots in Punjab may still remember the farmers’ protests, which could influence their choices.”