Anti Incumbency

The BJP secured a landslide victory in the Delhi Assembly polls, while AAP suffered a major setback. Anti-incumbency played a key role, with voter dissatisfaction over unfulfilled promises, especially on air quality. BJP’s pitch for Centre-state cooperation also resonated. The ‘Sheesh Mahal’ controversy over Kejriwal’s costly residence renovation further damaged AAP’s clean image. Additionally, the liquor policy scandal and corruption allegations led to arrests of key AAP leaders, including Kejriwal and Sisodia, keeping the party in crisis mode. These factors combined to weaken AAP’s standing, allowing BJP to make a strong comeback in Delhi after 27 years.

Comment | How much does anti-incumbency sentiment matter in Indian elections?

The study says incumbents are at a disadvantage in Hindi-speaking states, but being a BJP candidate is a big help.

Anti-incumbency led to DMK-Cong defeat in TN: Azad

Congress on Friday attributed the DMK-led alliance's rout in Tamil Nadu to anti-incumbency and explained away by saying it was the turn of the Opposition AIADMK to come to power.