New Delhi: As Delhi assembly elections on February 5 draw nearer, one constituency is sparking intense political drama—Matia Mahal — the pot-borough of India’s Muslims , tucked away in the old Delhi charm.
This bellwether state has high stakes for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) that has dominated this constituency for nearly a decade while eclipsing the minority appeasement by the Congress.
In 2020, AAP’s Shoaib Iqbal clinched an overwhelming victory, securing 75.96% of the vote with a massive margin of 50,241 votes.
This year, the stage is set for a new face: Aaley Mohammed Iqbal, the son of Shoaib Iqbal, who aims to carry on the legacy.
He faces tough competition from Congress’ Asim Ahmad Khan and the BJP’s Deepti Indora.
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Despite the overwhelming support for AAP, cracks are beginning to show. Some residents, like Golu, a 50-year-old cattle rearer, insist that they will vote for the party that delivers results.
“We’ll vote for whoever works for us,” he says, his eyes focused on the ground as he tends to his cattle in the sweltering heat.
Standing next to him, Mohammad Sarfaraz, a local resident, is quick to point out the controversy that has dogged AAP. “The liquor scam has really hurt Kejriwal’s image,” he remarks.
Ali, another resident, admits that while AAP’s policies may have some blemishes, the party’s achievements cannot be overlooked. “Yes, the liquor policy was wrong, especially the buy-one-get-one offer. It destroyed the lives of kids,” he says.
“But other than that, AAP has done good work in this area. You can’t deny the impact they’ve had on public services.”
Walking through the narrow alleys and bustling streets of Matia Mahal, a mix of support and skepticism hangs in the air. Locals, ranging from small business owners to everyday residents, offer a range of opinions about their political future.
Jai Prakash, a local businessman who runs a stainless steel shop, reflects a sense of dissatisfaction with the pace of development in the area. “I’ve been in this area for two years, and I haven’t seen much improvement,” he says, pausing as customers browse through his store. “But lately, roads are being constructed, so that’s something.”
Despite his mixed feelings, Prakash’s views are not representative of the wider sentiment. For many residents, AAP’s track record in improving public services still holds significant weight.
Mohammad Shehbaaz, a shopkeeper selling ball bearings, dismisses the controversy surrounding AAP’s so-called Sheesh Mahal, which has been heavily debated in the media. “It’s just a rumor,” he says.
“The AAP government has brought major changes here—mohalla clinics, better schools, and the facilities have vastly improved. I think Sanjay Singh is a better choice for Chief Minister than Kejriwal. Atishi doesn’t come to this area, and people don’t feel connected with her work. Sanjay Singh, on the other hand, has been more active and approachable.”
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Another local shopkeeper, Mohammad Ibram, who sells electrical goods, echoes the same sentiment. “AAP has delivered, to a large extent” he asserts confidently. “We don’t get big water bills anymore, and our electricity bills have gone down. AAP is doing the work, and that’s why we’ll support them.”
Matia Mahal has long been a bastion for AAP, but the opposition parties are determined to break that grip.
BJP and Congress are stepping up their efforts, questioning AAP’s governance and focusing on issues like corruption and the party’s controversial liquor policy.
While AAP’s development narrative has resonated with many voters, the opposition parties are counting on the growing disillusionment over certain missteps to sway the electorate.
The question now is whether AAP can hold on to its stronghold, or if this election will mark a new chapter in the city’s political story.
For now, the battle continues, with voters across Matia Mahal poised to make their voices heard on February 5.
Will the Aam Aadmi Party maintain its dominance, or will the winds of change sweep through the narrow lanes of this historic constituency? Only time will tell.