The Indian National Congress (INC), once the dominant force in Delhi politics, finds itself increasingly sidelined, as it once again failed to secure a seat in the 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly elections. This result is the latest chapter in Congress’s ongoing struggle to regain relevance in the capital, which has long seen the party’s influence wane. The Congress party’s failure to adapt to the rapidly changing political landscape, internal struggles, and a disconnect from the electorate have all contributed to its downward trajectory. Here’s a closer look at the causes behind Congress’s decline.
1. Persistent Decline: Congress’s Struggle for Relevance in Delhi
Congress’s decline in Delhi has been a steady one, with the party unable to recover from its diminishing base of support. Once the unquestioned political leader in Delhi, Congress’s inability to adapt its message to address the aspirations of the modern Delhi voter has been a significant factor in its continued fall from grace. The party’s vote share, while modestly increasing to 6.34% in 2025 from 4.3% in the previous elections, failed to translate into any real political power. Congress’s inability to offer an appealing alternative to both the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is at the heart of its struggles. Without a clear vision that resonates with the electorate, Congress risks further erosion of its base.
2. Internal Disarray: A Divided Party
One of the most glaring issues Congress faces is its internal disarray. Leadership struggles and factionalism within the party have weakened its ability to present a united front to voters. While Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP has thrived by positioning itself as an alternative to traditional parties, Congress has failed to adapt to this change. The lack of strong, cohesive leadership has only deepened the party’s struggles. The failure to form an alliance with AAP was a significant misstep. Had the two parties come together, they might have presented a credible challenge to BJP’s stronghold in the capital. Instead, the split opposition helped BJP consolidate its power, making it even harder for Congress to regain any ground.
3. Disconnect with the Electorate: A Party Out of Touch
Congress’s traditional voter base, including the urban poor and marginalized communities, has grown increasingly disillusioned with the party. The party’s failure to address pressing issues like unemployment, inflation, and housing for the poor has left many of its supporters searching for alternatives. While AAP has positioned itself as a champion of the common man with free education, healthcare, and utility subsidies, Congress has failed to adapt its messaging to meet these evolving needs. As a result, Congress finds itself disconnected from the voters who once viewed it as their champion.
4. The Rise of Regional Alternatives: AAP’s Growing Influence
The rise of regional alternatives like AAP has further diminished Congress’s influence. AAP, with its focus on governance and local issues, has captured the imagination of Delhi’s electorate, particularly in urban areas where Congress once held sway. AAP’s promise of better governance, free utilities, and effective management of local issues such as traffic and water shortages has resonated with voters, leaving Congress behind. AAP’s ability to connect with Delhi’s urban voters and offer tangible solutions to local issues has effectively sidelined Congress, which has struggled to remain relevant in the face of such competition.
5. The Road Ahead: Reinvention or Further Marginalization?
For Congress to regain its foothold in Delhi, a significant overhaul of its leadership and strategy is necessary. The party needs to reconnect with grassroots movements and focus on issues that matter to the electorate, such as employment, social welfare, and urban development. Additionally, the party must rejuvenate its leadership and allow fresh faces with new ideas to emerge. A clearer, more progressive message that appeals to young voters and marginalized communities is essential for Congress’s revival. Without such reforms, the party risks further marginalization in Delhi’s political landscape.
Conclusion: A Long Road to Recovery
The 2025 Delhi election results serve as a sobering reminder of Congress’s ongoing struggles. Its failure to secure a seat, despite its long history in the capital, highlights deeper systemic issues within the party. Congress must recognize the need for reinvention to overcome its decline. In doing so, it must revamp its leadership, reconnect with its core voter base, and craft policies that resonate with the people of Delhi. The road to recovery is long, but it is not insurmountable. If Congress can learn from its mistakes, embrace new leadership, and address the issues that matter to the electorate, it can regain its place in Delhi’s political future.
