Another Shocker For AAP In Delhi: 3 Councillors Join BJP

Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party, which faced a defeat in the recent Delhi Assembly Election 2025, was left stunned on Saturday after 3 AAP councillors switched sides and joined arch-rival BJP. The defected councillors are Anita Basoya from Ward 145, Nikhil Chaprana from Ward 183, and Dharamveer from Ward 152.

The decisions of 3 councillors to change parties could lead to formation of BJP's "triple-engine government" in the national capital, with saffron party's majoity at the Centre, state, and municipal levels.

As AAP loses its grip on MCD, a shift in power during March's mayoral elections seems inevitable.

BJP Gains Momentum Ahead of Mayoral Elections

With over a dozen AAP councillors joining BJP, the balance of power within the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has shifted considerably. Of the 14 MLAs eligible to vote in the upcoming mayoral elections, 10 belong to BJP. This makes a BJP victory seem highly likely as they gain momentum ahead of these crucial elections.

Adding to this political development, Sandeep Basoya, former New Delhi district president of AAP, has also joined BJP. This further strengthens BJP's presence in the capital. These defections represent another setback for AAP as political dynamics continue to evolve in Delhi's civic and state-level politics.

'Triple-Engine' Government in Delhi?

If BJP secures the mayoral position in March, it could lead to a unique triple-engine government scenario. The party would then control governance at all three levels: Centre, state, and MCD. Such dominance would further marginalise AAP after its recent challenges and setbacks.

The upcoming mayoral elections are intensifying the political battle for control over Delhi. This sets the stage for an essential showdown between AAP and the resurgent BJP as both parties vie for influence and authority in the capital.