'Misses Kejriwal' Trends As Delhi Debates BJP Government’s First Year In Power

Debate has intensified over the first year of the BJP government in Delhi, with social media flooded by hashtags like #SufferingDelhiMissesKejriwal and posters reading "Kejriwal is missed."

In several parts of the capital, residents are comparing the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) regime with the current situation, questioning whether there has been any real change in everyday civic services.

The Aam Aadmi Party describes the mood as public dissatisfaction, while the BJP government calls it an opposition-driven narrative. Since Delhi's politics often influences the national discourse, the first year of the new government formed after February 2025 is being seen as politically significant.

AAP's Allegations: Mohalla Clinics, Traffic and Cleanliness

AAP claims that after the BJP assumed power in February 2025 under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, administrative priorities shifted. The party said that within a year, the focus of governance changed and complaints began surfacing from various localities.

According to AAP statements, there are concerns that:

• The pace of work at Mohalla Clinics has slowed.
• Traffic congestion has worsened again.
• Action on pollution appears less stringent.
• Water supply complaints have increased in some areas.
• Questions are being raised about sanitation services.

AAP leaders argue that the government's development claims are not visible on the ground. In colony meetings and on social media, comparisons are frequently drawn with the previous government's focus on electricity, water, schools and healthcare.

BJP Government's Report Card: Arogya Mandirs and Atal Canteens

In response, the BJP government has highlighted its achievements, rejecting allegations of stagnation. Its one-year report card claims that 370 Arogya Mandirs and 70 Atal Canteens were launched within 365 days. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta linked these initiatives to expanded healthcare access and affordable food options for the poor and middle class.

The government also addressed water and sewerage challenges, announcing multiple mega projects under Delhi Water Projects. An allocation of ₹2,100 crore has been released, which the administration describes as a major infrastructure investment.

Power Cuts, Metro Queries and Traffic Advisories

Recent months have also seen discussions over scheduled power outages and traffic restrictions. Updates indicated planned shutdowns in areas such as Saket and Janakpuri, raising concerns among students and those working from home.

The traffic department issued advisories during the AI Summit, temporarily closing certain routes and suggesting alternatives. Public queries about metro station closures and service changes during events like Shivaji Jayanti and the AI Summit reflected how civic issues continue to dominate daily conversations.

The 'Delhi Model' Under AAP

Before February 2025, the AAP government led by Arvind Kejriwal promoted what was often called the "Delhi Model." This period saw emphasis on government school infrastructure upgrades, classroom reforms and improved public results, which supporters said rebuilt trust in public education.

Mohalla Clinics were projected as accessible and affordable healthcare centres, while subsidies on electricity and water bills were presented as direct financial relief for middle- and lower-income families. The government positioned itself as representing the common citizen, with the "Delhi Model" drawing national and international attention.

New Education Plans and Policy Decisions

The BJP government has introduced new initiatives in education, including 75 CM SHRI schools with AI-enabled classrooms. Officials argue this will expose government school students to emerging technologies, though critics say equal attention must be given to basic infrastructure.

Other decisions included issuing directions to sing all six verses of "Vande Mataram" at government functions. The AI Summit also saw controversy over a Chinese robotic dog displayed by Galgotias University, which triggered political criticism and social media backlash.

Crime and Law-and-Order Headlines

Law-and-order issues have also remained in focus. Developments in the Delhi SUV hit-and-run case, discussions around post-mortem findings in sensitive cases, and reports concerning alleged criminal networks have kept crime in the headlines.

Both the government and opposition have traded blame over security concerns, while citizens increasingly factor public safety into their political assessment.

PM Modi's AI Message and Public Expectations

At the AI Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about both the potential and risks of artificial intelligence, stressing the need for regulation, ethical frameworks and public interest safeguards.

As Delhi residents evaluate one year of BJP rule, everyday concerns such as electricity, water, education, healthcare, traffic and pollution remain central. The opposition views the current climate as a sign of possible political shifts, while the government maintains that its performance speaks for itself. The next chapter in Delhi's political landscape appears to be taking shape amid these ongoing debates.