New Delhi: The BJP and AAP have escalated their rivalry ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections with a heated poster war, each targeting the other's leaders with sharp political barbs on Saturday.
Today's controversy began with AAP releasing a poster targeting BJP's Kalkaji candidate Ramesh Bidhuri. The poster portrayed Bidhuri as a demon under the title, “BJP’s foul-mouthed CM face,” and read, “Directed by the foul-mouthed Party, starring Ramesh Bidhuri.”
Alongside the poster, AAP shared a scathing caption: “The foul-mouthed face of the foul-mouthed party.” This creative yet pointed attack aimed to show the AAP’s narrative about the BJP's alleged use of divisive rhetoric.
BJP's Equally Interesting Response
In retaliation, the BJP unveiled its own poster taking a direct hit at AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal. Labelling him the “Sheeshmahal-dwelling AAP-da-e-Azam,” the BJP coined the term "AAPda" (disaster) to intensify its criticism. The party has repeatedly accused Kejriwal of extravagance, particularly citing the alleged Rs 80 crore expenditure on his official residence, which it derisively refers to as “Sheeshmahal.”
The BJP’s poster was captioned, “Thug Films Presents Sheeshmahal-dwelling AAP-da-e-Azam. Directed by Arvind Kejriwal.” The accompanying post read: “The people of Delhi have resolved to oust the Sheeshmahal-dwelling AAP-da-e-Azam.” This counter-attack highlighted the BJP’s strategy to project AAP as disconnected from the common man's struggles.
The exchange of barbs through creative visuals and biting captions has added a theatrical dimension to an already intense election campaign. Both parties aim to sway voters through these targeted jibes, amplifying the animosity between them.
Delhi voters are set to cast their ballots in a single-phase election on February 5, with results scheduled for February 8. The political battle involves a triangular contest among AAP, BJP and Congress.
Tough Contest In Delhi Assembly Polls
AAP is vying for a third consecutive term amid corruption allegations and accusations of mismanagement. The party’s campaign leans heavily on welfare initiatives for women and the elderly, aiming to counteract anti-incumbency sentiments. Meanwhile, the BJP hopes to leverage these controversies to consolidate voter support and present itself as a cleaner alternative.
This election, seen as the first major political test of 2025, holds key prestige for all three parties. Kejriwal’s leadership, tarnished by the liquor policy case last year, faces a critical challenge as the AAP seeks to reestablish its dominance in Delhi politics.
